Visit Tri Cities CEO Kevin Lewis highlights tourism growth and key events impact

The City Council of West Richland received an impactful annual report from Visit Tri Cities during their recent meeting, highlighting significant economic contributions from tourism and community events. Kevin Lewis, CEO of Visit Tri Cities, presented data showing that tourism generated approximately $630 million in visitor spending last year, supporting around 5,900 jobs in the hospitality sector.

A standout achievement was the successful hosting of the Ironman 70.3 triathlon, which attracted 10,000 visitors from 45 states and 20 countries, injecting an estimated $7.5 million into the local economy. The event not only boosted hotel revenues by 59% compared to the previous year but also garnered extensive media coverage, reaching over 5.7 million viewers.

Lewis emphasized the importance of tourism as a catalyst for community vitality, stating that attracting visitors helps create a thriving environment for residents and businesses alike. He noted that 2024 saw an 86% increase in the number of events booked, reflecting a growing interest in the area as a destination for conventions and sports.

The report also detailed the funding structure for Visit Tri Cities, which relies heavily on tourism performance assessments and lodging taxes, with about 70% of its budget coming from these sources. Lewis expressed gratitude for the support from West Richland and reiterated the organization's commitment to fostering community growth through strategic marketing and event promotion.

As the council looks ahead, the focus will remain on enhancing tourism infrastructure, including the potential development of new hospitality businesses in West Richland, which could further elevate the area's profile as a desirable destination.