A HUB OF THE REGION MetraPark is a cornerstone of the community, bringing events that generate economic ripple effects throughout Billings and the area, and close to 1000 businesses directly benefit from its success. With a local footprint of 160,000 residents, the city of Billings, and MetraPark, draw from a four state region of approximately 600,000 people.“They come to Billings a lot because of our connection to the Ag community, restaurants, retail, events. But Metra is that draw that usually gets them here,” John Brewer, President and CEO of the Billings Chamber of Commerce depicts.“We’re extremely thankful for that facility, and we have a big team of businesses and individuals that are passionate about that support and partnership.” While many guests arrive on day trips, a significant share opts to stay overnight, fueling local hotels, restaurants, and shopping, with an average visitor expenditure of $180 a day. “We’ve really identified ourselves as an event destination. We can provide those upscale events that other places can’t,” says Brewer.“In addition to that, MetraPark is driving local job creation and tax revenue, and really reinforcing that position of us as a regional destination.” Visitor spending tied to concerts, conventions and sporting events pushes annual lodging‑tax revenues into the tens of millions, supporting not only MetraPark’s capital improvements but also a host of other tourism initiatives. A STRONG TEAM It takes a dedicated group of 41 full‑time employees to orchestrate MetraPark’s year‑round operations, and each of them are committed to the venue’s success. “I couldn’t be prouder of the team that I have,” boasts Field. “You have to be willing to put in the hours, be working the weekends, working the events where your family and friends are coming to enjoy themselves. I have a young management team right now that all have the same mindset.They want to make this the best facility it can be.” MetraPark also brings in up to an additional 150 part 5 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 06 METRAPARK MONTANA
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