Transforming San Diego into America’s Outdoor Downtown with Nathan Bishop
Dot Dot Dot: The NINE dot ARTS Podcast
Episode 81
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Preview the Episode
Downtown San Diego is evolving into a vibrant urban hub, blending economic growth with cultural vitality. This episode explores the strategies behind this transformation with Nathan Bishop, Senior Director of Economic Development at the Downtown San Diego Partnership. From attracting investment and streamlining land use policies to integrating public art and enhancing outdoor spaces, Nathan shares how San Diego’s downtown is becoming a model for innovative urban living. Learn about key projects – including the “Abalone Journey” mural and activated rooftops – and discover how San Diego is balancing development, placemaking, and cultural heritage to create an engaging community experience.
Discussed in the Episode:
Nathan Bishop
Downtown San Diego Partnership
San Diego Department of Cultural Affairs
Rady Shell at Jacobs Park
San Diego Chinese Historical Museum
Clean & Safe
Fort Worth Water Gardens
City of San Diego
Nathan Bishop on LinkedIn
About Nathan Bishop
As the Downtown San Diego Partnership’s Senior Director of Economic Development, Nathan leads the organization’s efforts in developing strategic initiatives that cultivate the economic and cultural vitality of the urban core of the nation’s 8th largest city. He actively promotes investment and real estate development in Downtown San Diego, along with overseeing creative placemaking efforts, visionary planning, and research. Prior to joining the Downtown San Diego Partnership team, Nathan served in various place-based economic development and planning roles in St. Louis, Illinois, and Denver, and has over a decade of experience in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. An industry leader with a comprehensive and diversified perspective, Nathan greatly values unique experiential mixed-use built environments that strengthen the connection between people and place. He received his undergraduate degree from Murray State University and his graduate degree in Urban Planning & Design from University of Colorado – Denver. He is a Certified Planner through the American Institute of Certified Planners and was recognized as a 40 under 40 business leader by the Springfield (IL) Business Journal.
About Dot Dot Dot: The NINE dot ARTS Podcast:
Dot Dot Dot is the continuing conversation around art in the built environment. Episodes explore art, culture, placemaking, and more with a range of reputable art and business leaders. Tune in biweekly to learn how an original art experience can boost your business and make a positive social impact. Episodes are available wherever you get your podcasts!