Sports events help boost local economy

Carson City's economy receives a significant boost from sports tournaments held on city grounds by athletic organizations from out of town.

Members of the Parks and Recreation Commission will hear about the growing effect of these groups during its meeting 5:30 p.m. today in the Sierra Room of the Community Center, 851 E. William St.

"It was initiated to start tracking economic impact of tournaments within our facilities, but we also wanted to attract new tournaments," said Joel Dunn, the city's recreation manager.

In 2005, people playing and watching these events spent $3.6 million. In 2006, the amount spent jumped to nearly $8.1 million. And this year, it's expected to reach $8.8 million, Dunn said.

There were nearly 30 sports tournaments held here last year. The Comstock Shootout, a spring youth soccer tournament that spans two weekends, spent $1.6 million alone.

Providing a location for these groups to rent for play not only helps boost the local economy, it also offsets the costs related to providing programs to residents, he said.

Partial success of the effort has been attributed to help from the Carson City Convention and Visitors Bureau. Last year, it provided the Parks and Recreation Department with about $14,000 for salaries, marketing, advertising and supplies.

• Contact reporter Terri Harber at tharber @nevadaappeal.com or 882-2111, ext. 215.