Published October 2003

Bringing people,
dollars to area

SCBJ Staff

When it comes to downtown revitalization, no one thing is the magic bullet. Rather, one thing builds upon another, said Fred Safstrom, executive director of the Everett Public Facilities District.

For Everett, the building blocks have included the redevelopment of Colby and Hewitt avenues, the creation of Everett Station, the ongoing Snohomish County government project and, of course, the Everett Events Center.

The center offers a new element for downtown: an entertainment complex that will draw visitors and local residents alike to take in a concert, a “Disney on Ice” show or a game of hockey — and perhaps a pre-game bite at a nearby eatery.

Those choosing to purchase food and beverages inside the center also will generate an economic boost locally, with products from Snohomish County-based businesses including The Flying Pig, Alfy’s Pizza, Scuttlebutt Brewery and Diamond Knot Brewery and Ale House having been tapped for concessions.

“We’re always eager to be a part of the community’s activities, but any beer we sell contributes to our financial success as well,” said Scuttlebutt owner Phil Bannan.

The center’s meeting facilities also will bring people into downtown, some for an evening banquet, others for an all-day business conference or a multi-day convention, said Jill Smith, conference center coordinator.

“We hope to join the Seattle Convention and Visitors Bureau, which would supply us with both statewide and national leads for conferences looking at Seattle,” she said.

“When they look into the rates, they’ll find the hotel rates and even conference space and food and beverage rates are so much more affordable here that the 20 miles (to Seattle) will be irrelevant,” added Smith, who is already working with local hotels on group packages.

Getting those heads in beds can mean substantial tourism dollars, said Sandy Ward, executive director of the Snohomish County Tourism Bureau.

“People who spend the night spend an average of about $84 apiece. ... And that’s on lodging, food, gas, trinkets and all kinds of goodies,” she said.

Related: Everett Events Center open for business
Related: Business groups already making use of center
Related: Silvertips' ticket sales ramp up with season
Related: PFD projects and economic boost countywide

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