KVEC RODEO GRANDSTANDS LARGE CAP APPLICATION

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Rodeo Arena in the Kittitas Valley Event Center aims to enhance safety, accessibility, and overall functionality while preserving the venue's historic character and charm. Key components of the project are: 1. New Grandstands: Featuring aluminum bench seating with backs, premium seating sections, and wheelchair accessible spaces. The seating numbers are consistent with the current grandstands, but the seat count increases when accounting for the addition of new wheelchair accessible spaces. 2. 5u�-ort-D-01dies: Upgraded restrooms, expanded concessions, a participant staging area, and upgraded gathering space. 3. Improved Infrastructure: Enhanced pedestrian flow with a skywalk connection to the fairgrounds, improved lighting, and compliance with modern building codes. See `Attachment A' for visuals of the completed project as well as aspects of the design plan. 2. Tourism Benefit The redevelopment of the Rodeo Arena Grandstands is poised to significantly enhance tourism in Kittitas County by transforming the venue into a premier destination for one of the nation's top rodeos and a variety of major regional events. This effort aligns directly with the top recommendation in the Kittitas County Tourism Strategic Plan, which prioritizes investment in the renovation and modernization of the Kittitas Valley Event Center and its Rodeo Grounds. A project of this scale promises wide -reaching benefits —not only improving the functionality and appeal of the venue itself but also generating positive economic and cultural impacts for the broader community. One of the most notable advantages is the potential for increased attendance. Enhanced facilities will make events at the Event Center more attractive to spectators, elevating their reputation and drawing visitors from across the region and the nation. This increased appeal not only drives ticket sales but also helps position Ellensburg as a destination for high -quality entertainment and cultural experiences. Another key benefit is the expansion of year-round usability. While the Ellensburg Rodeo remains a flagship event, the upgraded infrastructure will enable the grandstands to support a widervariety of programming. Concerts, equestrian competitions, festivals, and community gatherings can be accommodated more effectively, creating new opportunities for engagement and revenue generation throughout the year rather than being limited to seasonal use.