News Summary
The Greenville Drive and Fluor Field have significantly transformed the local economy, resulting in over $288 million in economic impact over the past decade. Attracting around 500,000 visitors yearly for games and events, Fluor Field has spurred the issuance of 433 new business permits and $277 million in construction around the area. The upcoming year anticipates generating $20.4 million in direct spending and creating 265 local jobs, contributing to Greenville’s vibrant community growth and making it a key destination for tourism and events.
Greenville has seen a remarkable economic transformation thanks to the Greenville Drive and their home base, Fluor Field. Over the last decade, the cumulative economic impact of the team and stadium has surpassed $288 million, according to a recent study. This study was carried out by an associate professor from the University of South Carolina’s College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management, and commissioned by VisitGreenvilleSC.
The study revealed that Fluor Field, which opened in 2006, attracts approximately 500,000 visitors annually. These visitors attend not only Drive games but also various significant events, such as ACC and SoCon baseball championship games, Artisphere, and euphoria. The consistent influx of visitors has sparked substantial economic growth in the surrounding area.
In the past decade, the economic activity spurred by Fluor Field has led to the issuance of 433 new business permits and $277 million in new business construction within a half-mile radius. This area, often referred to as the West End, has benefited significantly from the investment and attention brought in by the Drive and the stadium.
The economic impact study highlighted some key findings for the year 2024. This year, Fluor Field is projected to generate $20.4 million in direct spending, resulting in a total economic impact of $34 million. This growth has contributed $15.7 million in wages and income while also supporting 265 jobs in the community. In terms of tax contributions, the stadium is expected to provide $1.36 million this year alone.
With the Greenville Drive now entering their 20th season, their enduring legacy in the region is underlined by their contribution to local economic prosperity. The stadium is not just a venue for baseball; it plays a crucial role in various local events throughout the year. Beyond Drive games, Fluor Field hosts the Reedy River Rivalry between the University of South Carolina and Clemson University, the Southern Conference Baseball Championship, and numerous local festivals that draw crowds from around the region.
The report underscores the significance of both the Greenville Drive and Fluor Field in not only stimulating local business activities but also in positioning Greenville as an attractive destination for conventions and unique client experiences. The revitalization of the West End, powered in large part by the stadium and its events, has transformed the area into a thriving hub of activity and commerce.
Fluor Field was funded privately by the owners of the Greenville Drive, which has played a crucial role in redeveloping real estate in the West End. Over the years, the development has fostered a vibrant community filled with new businesses, restaurants, and entertainment options that benefit from the foot traffic generated by the stadium’s events.
In summary, the economic analysis illustrates the profound effect that the Greenville Drive and Fluor Field have had on the Greenville area over the past decade. The substantial visitor numbers, coupled with the growth of local businesses, demonstrate a successful partnership between local sports and community development.
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Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina
- Upstate Business Journal
- GSA Business
- Greenville Online
- Kidding Around Greenville
- Wikipedia: Economic impact of sports
- Google Search: Fluor Field Greenville Drive economic impact
- Google Scholar: Greenville Drive economic impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sport
- Google News: Greenville Drive
