TRI-CITIES, Wash. – Visit Tri-Cities is expected to report a significant boost in economic activity and community engagement throughout 2024.
Kevin Lewis, President and CEO, Visit Tri-Cities is listed on the Pasco City Council Workshop Agenda to recap the year’s successful events and strategic marketing.
One of the standout achievements Lewis is expected to highlight was the debut of the inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 Washington-Tri-Cities.
The event drew over 2,300 athletes and thousands of spectators, generating an economic impact of more than $7 million.
Lewis, in his presentation materials, said participants from 45 states and 20 countries expressed high satisfaction, with the event earning a 93% satisfaction rate and Triathlete Magazine recognizing it as one of the top races in North America.
In addition to the IRONMAN event, the Tri-Cities welcomed the National Horseshoe Pitchers World Championship for the first time. This event contributed nearly $2 million in direct economic impact and attracted over 500 participants nationwide, according to the Visit Tri-Cities report.
The increase in events helped maintain a 1.2% rise in hotel occupancy levels in 2024. With national travel trends remaining flat, the Tri-Cities region still saw growth in key lodging metrics. Revenue Per Available Room increased by 5.7%, and total hotel revenues rose by 7%, said the report.
Collaborative efforts with the National Park Committee successfully reopened B Reactor tours for the entire 2024 season, achieving record-breaking tour attendance.
With a $630 million annual economic impact from visitor spending and supporting over 5,800 local jobs, tourism continues to be a vital force for the Tri-Cities, the report added.
Lewis is scheduled to give his full presentation during the City’s Council Workshop Meeting on Monday, March 10.
