Ice events net EGF cold cash

A new analysis suggests ice hockey and figure skating events bring more than a few dollars to East Grand Forks. The survey was conduction by the University of Minnesota Extension Service in Crookston.

Parks Director Reid Huttunen says the study is part of the larger discussion about improving arena facilities.

Among the findings is that youth hockey and figure skating generated 9,379 visitors to East Grand Forks. The average overnight stay resulted in $133 dollars in spending per person per day – and a $2.1 million dollar economic impact on the region.

Businesses that benefited the most directly from the visitors include hotels, restaurants, and bars. Other industries, however, also benefited, including repair and maintenance construction, real estate, and management of companies.

Only 15 percent of respondents would have come to East Grand Forks in absence of the event. Four in ten attendees plan to return within a year, mostly for youth sports.