Skip to Main Content

About the Downtown Tempe District

Welcome to Downtown Tempe!
Nestled in the heart of the city, the Downtown Tempe district is central to the Valley of the Sun, and is known nationally for its’ historic charm, iconic events, electric nightlife, and scenic beauty.

About the Downtown Tempe District

The downtown Tempe district is unlike any other. Nestled against the shores of Tempe Town Lake and budding up to the historic “A” Mountain, Downtown Tempe is an urban and walkable experience with an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities and historical landmarks, retail shopping, restaurants and bars, public art, transportation options. Home to over 160 businesses- with 60% locally owned and operated, the Downtown Tempe district is a destination for outdoor adventure, culinary delights, an energetic nightlife, cultural experiences, and iconic events - all in a day’s trip and without leaving the district. Experience the place where good times begin!

Meet the Team

The Downtown Tempe district and downtowntempe.com is managed by Downtown Tempe Authority, a 501(c)6 enhanced services district that works in partnership with the City of Tempe.

Lori Foster
President & CEO
Jane Mittness
Chief Personnel Officer
Anthony Strait
VP of Operations
Kim DeMeritt
Director of Events
Tamar Burch
Events Manager
Amy Otto
Events Manager
Ally Dykstra
Business Liaison and Placemaking
Bethany Kennedy
Director, Strategic Marketing & Communications
Chelsey Velasquez
Events Marketing Manager
Cipriano Olivas
Operations Manager
Channa Phillips
Parking Operations Manager
Anna Katen
Operations Administrative Assistant
Kiza Moore
Customer Service Specialist
Kino Starks
Hayden Ferry Garage Supervisor
Anastazia Valenzuela
Marina Heights Site Supervisor

Vision & Mission Statement

Welcome to the heartbeat of the downtown district—Downtown Tempe Authority! We are the combined force of two organizations. Downtown Tempe Authority is a 501(c)6 enhanced services district formed in 1993 to create a clean and safe space and to actively curate the downtown experience. The Downtown Tempe Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that creates community events to showcase the downtown. The two work together to make Downtown Tempe the best urban experience in the Valley with an inclusive approach to partnerships and outcomes.

Mission: Downtown Tempe Authority should act as a vehicle to positively impact and drive the future of our city’s urban center and to be a steward of the existing assets and resources.

Vision: This place will be youthful in spirit, embracing growth and innovation, and wise in practice, protecting our character and history

Purpose: We set the stage to create connections and strengthen community

Core Values:  Resilience, Integrity, Authenticity, Creativity, Inclusivity

Areas of Focus: DEI, Education, Technology, Health & Wellness

Downtown Tempe Foundation

The Downtown Tempe Foundation is the 501(c)3 charitable organization that produces the Downtown Tempe events and conducts all charitable programming for the organization. The annual events include The Tempe Festival of the Arts, The Fantasy of Lights Street Parade + Tree Lighting, The Fantast of Lights Boat Parade, Juneteenth Block Party, and the Pride Party.

Mission

The DTF exists to curate diverse and impactful experiences that cultivate community engagement 

Vision

Our events and experiences will create a sense of belonging by combining the best of what we've done with the best of what's to come.

What We Do

Our team is committed to making Downtown Tempe the go-to spot for connection, creativity, and endless good vibes. Passionate about our district and its people, we’re on a mission to boost the energy, excitement, and charm of our community. Whether it’s partnering with local businesses, hosting amazing events, or creating spaces where everyone feels welcome, DTA is here to keep Downtown Tempe buzzing with life.

Work With Us

Careers