KVEC RODEO GRANDSTANDS LARGE CAP APPLICATION

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range of events but also elevate the spectator experience, making the Rodeo Arena a premier destination for outdoor entertainment in the region. Each of these events has the potential to attract an average of 5,000 attendees, resulting in a combined estimated attendance of 45,000 over a five -month span. According to the Kittitas County Tourism Strategic Plan, approximately 34% of attendees are expected to travel from more than 50 miles away —qualifying them as tourists. This equates to an estimated 15,300 new visitors. These tourists are projected to spend a minimum of $223 per day* and stay for an average of 1.47 days**, generating an additional $5,015,493 in economic impact for both the City of Ellensburg and Kittitas County. Roughly 24% of these visitors stay in Kittitas County hotels Located outside the City of Ellensburg. * Spending amount figure was pulled from Oxford Economics and presented by the Thurston EDC during their official 2022 economic impact study on the Ellensburg Rodeo **1.47 is the multiplier effect assigned to KVEC within the Kittitas County Tourism Strategic Plan when discussing the potential economic impact of capital investments. 3. Target Users By modernizing the venue while preserving its historic significance, the Rodeo Arena Grandstands project will ensure a lasting impact on tourism and community engagement in Kittitas County. The upgraded grandstands at the Kittitas Valley Event Center will serve a diverse range of users, enhancing the overall experience for all who attend events at the venue. One of the primary groups of users will be tourists and spectators who travel to Ellensburg to attend signature events such as the Ellensburg Rodeo, Bares N Broncs, Cowboy Cross, and a variety of other entertainment offerings held throughout the year. These visitors contribute significantly to the local economy and rely on comfortable, safe, and well- equipped facilities to enjoy their experience. Another key group includes the event participants themselves —rodeo athletes, performers, and competitors —who depend on upgraded staging areas and support infrastructure to safely and effectively prepare for and participate in events. The grandstands will also benefit local and regional community members, providing improved amenities for residents who attend cultural celebrations, sporting events, and family activities at the venue.