LT-SS-2023-002-Ellensburg-Unity-Park-Shade-Tents (4)

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a a 2.4 Overall Market Obseryations and Conclusions The following conclusions are based on the market evaluation above. These conclusions also underpin the recommendations that will fo11ow in Chapter Three. r Ellensburg has made significant investments in both downtown and torirism reach and the slrccoss of downtown is reflected in the breadth and depth of the customer base. Central Washingion University and downtown Ellensburg are inextricably linked, and the community should explole ways possible to continue to reinforce and grow those connections. Growth will continue in Ellensburg. This is inevitable. The market data indicates potcntial for both suburban and downtown growth to coincide. The days of downtowns and suburban iocations "competing" foi'the customel dollar are o.,'er. If Ellensburg can retain a custorner ilr town who might travei io another markei, it wili be a much easier task io get that shopper loyal to downtor.vn. Smart suburban retail development generally wiil not negatively impa.ct downtown. Ilcusing is going to play a major role in the futuie of downiown Ellensbiirg. The irends all point to ongoing success with downtown housing that not only caters to students, but also to empty nesters and young professionals. The cirLniricai data noinis io increa-sino room rates- occunancv. a.nd revenr:es that in-<iicate'__- -'__r__ r-'_"_ -'--__'p ---"r'"-J, strong potential for a hoteilinn that would serve as a complement (not competition) with existing hotels in the community. To avoid being competitive with existing properties this hotel should be iocated in downtown Hllensburg, Concepts for this are shown in a later section of this report. Ellensburg has a distinct opporhrnity to "curate" the growth of the community and to expand the footprint of its downtown to better connect the dots befirreen attractions. This will be explored later in the report. ri 21