Kyle Leyenberger has been named executive director of the Downtown Little Rock Partnership (DLRP), the nonprofit announced Monday.
Leyenberger had been the organization’s deputy director, guiding public engagement during development of the city’s downtown master plan and leading efforts to elevate local businesses and increase event participation. He joined DLRP in 2022 as director of marketing and communications.
Leyenberger follows Gabe Holmstrom as executive director. Holmstrom, who held the role for 10 years, built DLRP’s network of downtown advocates and expanded its programming by offering new events and establishing a public art program.
Holmstrom left DLRP to launch a consulting firm, Capitol + Main, with a focus on developing public-private partnerships.
“I love downtown, I love this organization, and there’s still so much work to be done,” Holmstrom said in a news release. “We have a talented team in place who understand the mission, and now, it’s time to pass the torch. I can’t wait to see what Kyle does from the captain’s chair.”
Leyenberger will continue to promote the Downtown Little Rock Master Plan and help to guide progress with the city’s implementation committee, including the development of the 30 Crossing green space into a flagship park. He will also continue managing the Downtown Little Rock Ambassador program, which provides cleaning, litter removal, hospitality and safety services in the area.
Leyenberger previously worked for the Arkansas Education Association as director of communications. Before that, he was the Arkansas Public Policy Panel’s communications and information coordinator. He is a former reporter at KNWA-TV in Rogers.
“Working closely with Gabe has given me a wealth of knowledge about partnership operation and goals, and I’m excited to hit the ground running,” Leyenberger said in the release. “Our small but talented team punches well above its weight, and I’m ready to build on that momentum during this promising time for Downtown Little Rock.”
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