Message from the Mayor (cont'd.)
From its establishment in August of 1999, the Charleston Area Convention Center Complex has attracted millions of guests and visitors to the Greater Charleston Region and contributed significantly to the regional and local economy. Visitors and residents often forget the tremendous impact the facility has within our City. The Complex not only provides entertainment for the hardworking citizens of North Charleston, but has led to the creation of hundreds of jobs.
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In recent years, the immediate area around the Coliseum, Convention Center and Performing Arts Center has flourished, as it has been consumed with top of the line hotels, shops and eateries. The hotels remain at maximum occupancy, the shops are bustling, and the restaurants have brought a welcomed variety to North Charleston dining. These amenities used by our residents and visitors provide employment opportunities for local citizens.
Last year alone, the Complex drew 1.4 million visitors. The Office of Tourism Analysis at the College of Charleston conservatively estimates that there was a total economic impact to the Charleston area amounting to $79.6 million from the facility of which $29.7 million are in wages earned locally.
A wealth of events has graced the stages of the Coliseum and Performing Arts Center. The biggest headliner of recent was Bruce Springsteen, attracting a sell out crowd and performed as amazingly as expected. In past years Elton John, Widespread Panic, Wheel of Fortune, the American Idol Auditions have all visited the Complex, providing a wide variety of shows and events to draw crowds of all ages and walks of life.
Some of the noteworthy upcoming events include the comedy act of Ron White, the music of the High Kings, the Broadway performance of Sweeney Todd, the Miss South Carolina USA Pageant and even the Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. I encourage you to visit the Complex’s website at http://www.coliseumpac.com to find a listing of all future events.
Take advantage of this great amenity we have right in our backyard. Whether you come to cheer on the hometown South Carolina Stingrays hockey team or to watch a performance from halfway around the world, you will only find good seats and good times.