Downtown Rochester Sees Foot Traffic Rebound Despite Ongoing Construction

City agencies track data showing recovery in visitors and hotel occupancy after pandemic impacts

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:55pm

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A photorealistic studio still life featuring a collection of sleek, geometric objects arranged on a minimalist background, symbolizing the data-driven analysis and recovery of downtown foot traffic and visitor activity.A stylized still life captures the data-driven recovery of downtown Rochester's foot traffic and visitor numbers.Rochester Today

Despite ongoing construction projects and some business challenges, downtown Rochester is seeing a rebound in foot traffic and visitor numbers, according to data tracked by the Rochester Downtown Alliance and Destination Medical Center Economic Development Agency. While the area is still recovering from pandemic impacts, officials report that foot traffic is now at 88% of pre-COVID levels and hotel occupancy has surpassed pre-pandemic highs by 10%.

Why it matters

The recovery of downtown Rochester's foot traffic and visitor numbers is an important indicator of the city's economic health and resilience. As a major hub for business, tourism, and medical services, a vibrant downtown is crucial for Rochester's overall prosperity. The data suggests the city is successfully navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic and ongoing construction projects.

The details

According to Rochester Downtown Alliance Executive Director Shawn Fagan, foot traffic in the 44 blocks of downtown Rochester is now at 88% of 2019 levels and has risen every year since the 2020 pandemic downturn. Destination Medical Center Economic Development Agency Executive Director Patrick Seeb noted that Rochester is seeing a higher percentage of local visitors compared to statewide tourism challenges. The city's hotel occupancy rates have also recovered to pre-pandemic levels and are now 10% higher than a year ago.

  • In 2019, downtown Rochester saw its highest pre-pandemic foot traffic levels.
  • In 2020, downtown foot traffic declined due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Since 2020, downtown foot traffic has risen every year, reaching 88% of 2019 levels.
  • As of April 2026, downtown Rochester's hotel occupancy rates have surpassed pre-pandemic highs by 10%.

The players

Shawn Fagan

Executive Director of the Rochester Downtown Alliance.

Patrick Seeb

Executive Director of the Destination Medical Center Economic Development Agency.

Cindy Steinhauser

Deputy City Administrator of Rochester.

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What they’re saying

“Ever since coming out of the pandemic, we have continued to see that rise.”

— Shawn Fagan, Executive Director, Rochester Downtown Alliance

“There were so many changes in behavior, in practices. We are still rising out of the pandemic in terms of how people go to work, how they experience their free time.”

— Patrick Seeb, Executive Director, DMC Economic Development Agency

“Our focus at the city is really helping people navigate that experience of what comes next.”

— Cindy Steinhauser, Deputy City Administrator, Rochester

What’s next

City officials and agencies plan to continue monitoring foot traffic and visitor data, as well as working to address any new challenges that arise from the ongoing downtown construction projects.

The takeaway

Despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic and ongoing construction, downtown Rochester has shown resilience in recovering its foot traffic and visitor numbers. This suggests the city's efforts to support businesses and help people navigate the changes are paying off, and that Rochester remains an attractive destination for both locals and tourists.