Economic Context, Demand & Feasibility

Winter Visitor Activity & Seasonal Variation

Lane County’s visitor economy performs strongly during spring, summer and early fall. Winter months consistently show decreases in:

• Hotel occupancy
• Visitor spending
• Visitor activity that supports local businesses and hospitality jobs

This long-standing pattern is why Travel Lane County continues to evaluate strategies that may strengthen overnight stays during lower-demand seasons.

Economic Role of Visitor Activity

Lane County welcomed more than 3.5 million visitor trips in 2024, providing regional lodging, dining, outdoor recreation, cultural attractions and events. In 2024, travel generated $1.1 billion in economic impact for our local communities from Florence to McKenzie River and Oakridge, supporting the livelihoods of more than 10,000 residents. The lodging tax revenue contributed by visitors continues to support our community venues, cultural assets and future tourism investment. [Source: Dean Runyan Associates]

Potential Economic Impact Projections

Economic projections will be completed by an independent firm as part of the feasibility evaluation. Early analysis suggests that a facility of this type could:

• Increase winter weekend overnight stays
• Provide consistent indoor space for local sports and recreation
• Support multiuse programming and community activities
• Attract regional tournaments during lower-demand seasons

Examples from other communities show that indoor sports facilities can help generate winter activity and support local residents. Lane County’s evaluation will determine whether similar outcomes may be feasible here. Final feasibility will consider funding structure, governance and implementation constraints in addition to projected economic outcomes.

About Indoor Sports Tournaments

Indoor sports have been identified for more than 30 years as a way to strengthen winter overnight stays because tournaments:

• Are not dependent on weather
• Attract families who stay multiple nights
• Generate consistent weekend activity throughout the year

Potential to Address Local Needs

A multiuse facility is being evaluated for both community and visitor economy benefit. A 2016 CSL Facilities Needs Study identified a shortage of indoor court space for local sports groups, and community organizations continue to report limited access during colder months.

Updates and information will be shared as it becomes available.