R2023-148 and Eexecuted SS Grant Contracts (2)

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Pla n Fra mework Long-range Community Goals Benefiting Tourism ln developing the tourisrn plan, ths strategic plan committee and key stakeholders discussed several long-range goals that go beyond.the scope of this plan. These r*.or*"nirtions are important for tqurism inthe tong-tetm and benefit the cornmunity overall. Some of the following are addressed in other city plansor are within the scope of other departments 1) Downtown development. Ellensburg's downtown is a major visitor attraction as well as being acommunity gathering place. Efforts should continue to encourage the developmunioilrrin.sses andamenities that serve both visitors and cornrnunity. The new ptaia will be a great impiouumunt rordowntown' continue to strive to create a downtown that is iestive every day, not just during events. 2) Transportation' Ellensburg is .car-depenelent and this has implications for attracting travelers whodon't own cars or those traveling greater distances. rv.riuv i"rti"ations such as yakima andwenatchee have air and train access. once in Ellensburg, ti"ueters t-tau" aic"ri l" u;;;; iyft and taxiservice. However, the service is not arways avairabre or r""tiuut", - - a) continue work to make private and eventually commercial flights possible into Bowers FieldAirport. b) Explore bike or scooter sharing opportunities. c) Expand CentralTransit to visitor destinations, 3l lnterchange beautificatio.n and signage. Ellensburg's "front door,, off t-90 reflects little of the charmand character to be found in the downtown. tn adJ'ition to wiyiinalng signage, it would be beneficialto look at the "curb appeal" of these entrances and implemeni r piun to make improvements. 4l Development of a conference center. This is..a lo.ng-term goal that will require a feasibility study.Growth of the meetitrgs tourism program will helpleterniin" tf.r. ii*ing of this study. 5) Development of a large-scale recreation center, This long-term goal will require a feasibility study.while it would largely benefit the community, there *ouii b" toiiism benefits as well. 6l Development of a large'scale performance center. This may be done in conjunction with the reccenter' The community and university need a larger venue rbr eventt that is not weather-dependent.Large events are a major attraction for visitors. City r;i Ellenshurg Fnre-Year Tourisrrr Strategic plan 21 7019