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Cognizant Classic organizer highlights economic, charitable impact and changes to fan experience in Palm Beach Gardens
Summary
Todd Fleming, executive director of the Cognizant Classic, told the Palm Beach Gardens City Council the tournament generated thousands of room nights, millions in community and charitable dollars, and will introduce new hospitality structures and fan activations this year; he also said the veterans area was moved to the 10th green.
Todd Fleming, vice president and executive director of the Cognizant Classic, told the Palm Beach Gardens City Council that the PGA Tour stop continues to produce measurable economic and charitable benefits for the community while the tournament refines its on-site hospitality and fan experience.
Fleming said the tournament produced roughly 11,000 room nights attributed countywide in 2024, generated more than $70 million in earned media value tied to its presenting partnership with Discover Palm Beaches, and produced about $6.8 million in community and charitable impact that benefited more than 50 local organizations.
"What we really stand for...is always how are we being a steward inside of the community," Fleming said, describing charitable giving and local partnerships as the tournament's "North Star." He said the tournament is "well on our way" toward similar charitable totals for 2025.
Fleming described several changes spectators will see at the event this year, including new exterior and interior builders, a new food-and-beverage operator and colored, patterned gable and tinting structures at course holes intended to better represent Palm Beach Gardens on television and at the venue. He said organizers issued multiple requests-for-proposals last year to rework hospitality and site elements and that the new structures are intended to use the course's natural contours and reduce tall, wind-exposed builds.
Fleming said the event will include a new FPL Fan Village near the 18th hole that will house food activations and city-themed elements that the majority of attendees will pass each day. He also noted the tournament field is stronger than at the same point last year, with 14 of the world 's top 50 players committed and 10 of the top 30 in current FedEx Cup standings.
When a council member asked about a veterans area that had previously been on No. 17, Fleming said the Patriots Outpost has been moved to the 10th green area, where it will be closer to several tees and a drop-off with ADA access.
Charlotte Przezinski, the city's leisure services administrator, introduced the presentation and thanked tournament staff and city partners for their coordination.
Fleming closed by thanking the city for hosting and by announcing the countdown to the event: "See you guys in 17 days," he said.
