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The economic impact of these improvements is equally significant. As more visitors attend <br />events at the modernized facility, they will spend more in the local economy —staying in <br />hotels, dining at restaurants, shopping at local businesses, and fueling at area gas stations. <br />The Kittitas Valley Event Center serves as a key economic driver for Kittitas County by <br />generating a significant volume of overnight stays in lodging facilities located both inside <br />and outside the City of Ellensburg. However, the non -City hotel stays directly contribute to <br />the Kittitas County Lodging Tax fund, reinforcing the Event Center's critical role in <br />supporting regional tourism. Table 2.1 illustrates where KVEC visitors stayed beyond city <br />boundaries, demonstrating the far-reaching impact on the local economy. With the <br />planned enhancements, this impact is expected to grow, further establishing the Event <br />Center as a key contributor to overnight visitation and regional economic development. <br />Increased activity will support local jobs and generate sustained growth, benefiting both <br />residents and business owners. <br />Table 2.1 <br />Placer.ai Favorite Places - February 1, 2024-January 31, 2025 <br />Hotel Location <br />K1 C-Shared ViS&M <br />The Lodge @ Suncadia <br />8400 <br />Suncadia Resort <br />5900 <br />Canyon River Ranch <br />4100 <br />TOTAL <br />18400 <br />In addition, improvements to the visitor experience will play a critical role in the success of <br />the redevelopment. Modernized seating, enhanced accessibility features, and upgraded <br />amenities will make the venue more comfortable and inclusive for all attendees, including <br />individuals with disabilities. A more enjoyable and welcoming experience encourages <br />repeat visits and fosters lasting community pride and loyalty to the venue. These combined <br />benefits highlight the importance of investing in the Event Centerto ensure it continues to <br />thrive as a vibrant hub for entertainment, culture, and civic connection. <br />Operational capacity is also poised to increase. The upgraded grandstands will make it <br />feasible to schedule 27 additional event days in the Rodeo Arena. Assuming these are <br />typical multi -day events, the venue could support approximately 9 new large-scale events <br />between mid -May and mid -October —even accounting for the annual temporary closure <br />required for Fair and Rodeo preparations. These events can include the National Team <br />Roping Finals, monster truck rallies and other stunt/thrill shows, concerts or live stage <br />performances, and new opportunities such as regional high school or collegiate rodeo <br />championships. The enhanced seating and infrastructure will not only attract a broader <br />