Downtown Columbus' residential population is expected to reach 10,000 this year despite Covid-19 and an uncertain economy and office market. The State of Downtown Columbus report by the Capital Crossroads and Discovery special improvement districts, unveiled during Wednesday's Columbus Metropolitan Club forum, said that 9,855 people live Downtown, with an apartment occupancy rate of 85.7%. That was down from 94% the year before. One reason: Six apartment buildings opened in Downtown Columbus, bringing the total number of housing units Downtown to 8,062. Another 1,169 units, a $128 million investment, are under construction, with an additional 1,591 units totaling $506 million proposed. Brad DeHays, founder of Connect Realty and one of three panelists at the forum, said he believes there will continue to be demand for Downtown housing. He said the number of new projects in the works shows that developers remain bullish.