DEMOCRAT
SOUTH BEND
Luecke’s investment in arts and culture has impacted economy
Two studies show South Bend’s arts generate millions in economic impact
South Bend, Ind. — Mayor Steve Luecke’s vision for South Bend to be the region’s center for arts and culture has helped create a renaissance downtown and fueled an expansion of entertainment and dining possibilities.
And, according to two recent studies, Luecke’s efforts have helped the region reap millions in economic spending.
The city-owned Morris Performing Arts Center will generate a $5.9 million indirect economic impact this year on the community, not including its own ticket sales, according to a study conducted by Saint Mary’s College.
And St. Joseph County experiences a $30.48 million economic impact from the nonprofit arts and culture industry, according to a national Arts and Economic Prosperity study by Americans for the Arts. Although the study focused on the county as a whole, 72 percent of the arts organizations surveyed in the study are based in South Bend.
“The dream of creating a first-class arts district downtown is bringing people back into the city and expanding the economic resources for the city and the greater South Bend area,” Luecke said. “South Bend has many jewels that draw tourists and local residents for entertainment, and my administration has played a pivotal role with investments to make this happen.”
Both studies reported dramatic increases in the level of economic impact from similar studies done in 2002 for Arts and Economic Prosperity and in 2004 for the Morris. The countywide impact increased 24 percent since 2002, while the Morris’ impact increased 80 percent since 2004.
Every year, the local arts industry supports the equivalent of 894 full-time jobs and also produces $2.52 million in local and state tax revenue. Compared to Santa Cruz County, which is similar in size, local arts organizations support more than double the number of jobs, according to the study.
Entertainment options also are expanding downtown along Michigan Street this fall with the relocation of Rum Runners Dueling Piano Bar from Mishawaka and the opening of Trio’s Jazz Club. And as Art Beat demonstrated on Sept. 6, people are taking every opportunity to enjoy the rejuvenated downtown.
“When more than 7,000 people – from young professionals and senior citizens to families with children – come to the downtown on a weeknight, you know this community is thriving and people feel safe,” Luecke said.