Downtown sees growth, revitalization
City Press Releases, Economic Development, General News, City of Pittsburg
October 17, 2025
Downtown Pittsburg is undergoing robust growth and revitalization, according to the latest Pittsburg Micropolitan Area Economic Report by Dr. Michael Davisson of Pittsburg State University’s Kelce College of Business.
One of the report’s findings is the increasing migration of individuals aged 50 and older from major metropolitan areas to micropolitan communities, such as Pittsburg. Citing research by Plane et al., Davisson notes that this demographic shift reflects a growing preference for quality of life in smaller cities.
A vibrant downtown plays a central role in this transformation, according to the report. Downtown districts are crucial to attract both residents and visitors. The City of Pittsburg has taken proactive steps to enhance its downtown appeal, including façade improvement programs and 58 revitalization initiatives in recent years.
Additionally, Pitt State’s Kelce College of Business will move to a new downtown facility in July 2026. With approximately 700 students attending classes downtown several times a week, the move is expected to boost foot traffic and energize local commerce.
The city’s reputation as a dynamic university town and regional shopping destination is growing. According to Placer.ai, downtown Pittsburg welcomed 945,089 visits in the first eight months of 2025, with the average visit lasting 91 minutes. Of these visits:
- 51.1% were Pittsburg residents,
- 15.5% residents of the surrounding micropolitan area,
- 18.9% from elsewhere in Kansas, and
- 14.5% from out of state.
Retailers are also seeing positive results. The Kansas Department of Revenue reports a 3.2% increase in downtown retail sales during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year.
Downtown Pittsburg now boasts nearly 30 specialty retailers, including boutiques, bridal shops, art stores, and recreational venues like axe-throwing. The area also features over 20 dining and drinking establishments, from coffee shops and cocktail lounges to a local brewery.
Read the full report here.