It's admittedly hard to measure, but there was an obvious economic benefit to hosting the BC Summer Games in Maple Ridge, and more spinoffs that will continue in the future.

Ridge Meadows Chamber of Commerce CEO Kristi Maier said the conspicuous bands of teens – all wearing the colours of their zones on t-shirts, hats and sunglasses – could be found wandering into local restaurants and businesses. There were about 2,500 competitors. And then there were thousands of parents, coaches and other supporters who came with the athletes, and they were in town for the event from July 17-21.

According to the provincial Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, the BC Games generate an estimated economic boost of $1.6 million to $2 million each time the Games are held.

Maier said she heard from business owners that they had expected it to be a busy weekend, but not as hectic as it turned out.

"It was an amazing boost for the city," she said.

Attending events such as the opening ceremonies and the volunteer appreciation lunch, Maier described pride in the city, and a positive energy.

"Everyone was happy, and you felt the community spirit," said Maier. 
 

It was great advertising for the city. People from outside the Lower Mainland may not be familiar with Maple Ridge – some simply pass through on the way somewhere else – so their visit during the Summer Games let them see the natural beauty and other features that could make them want to come back.

"The Games was a great avenue for people to see how wonderful Maple Ridge is," said Maier.

Mayor Dan Ruimy was at numerous Games events over the weekend, and was impressed with the crowds of large visitors.

"The restaurants that I visited during the Games were full," he said, and he would give parents advice on what they could do during their down time.

"I told them 'take them to WildPlay, they're going to love it."
 

Ruimy said the event was a direct economic boost over the weekend, and the days-long advertisement for the city will provide a tangible impact on both tourism and even economic development into the future.

Simply put, bringing people to Maple Ridge to have a good time helps the city's image. The mayor thanked the many volunteers who made it happen. He referred to the city's branding message:

"When we say 'Driven by Community,' that's what we mean – people show up," said Ruimy. "This was run by volunteers, and they did a phenomenal job."

City spokesperson Fred Armstrong said during the games city hall took the opportunity to promote the Maple Ridge 150th anniversary celebration Our Neck of the Woods, which is coming up on Sept. 14.

There have been more than 200,000 page interactions on the BC Games social media channels, and over 4 million photo views of the Games Flickr album.
"It was a tremendous opportunity to market the community regionally and provincially," said Armstrong.

Article belongs to the Maple Ridge - Pitt Meadows News: https://shorturl.at/WoLza