FORT MADISON (WGEM) – The Tri-State Rodeo is set to begin in about a week, with festivities launching this Saturday featuring the Special Kids Rodeo. Local leaders in Fort Madison emphasize the event’s significant role in stimulating the regional economy. n nBeyond attracting visitors who stay overnight, the influx of attendees provides a direct boost to area enterprises. Restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores all experience increased sales during the event week. n nSavanna Collier, executive director of the Fort Madison Area Chamber of Commerce, noted that while temporary inconveniences like heavier traffic may arise, the financial benefits far outweigh minor disruptions. n n”Residents might find their daily commutes slightly extended due to higher foot and vehicle traffic, but it’s essential to recognize the broader economic advantages,” Collier explained. “These visitors are here for roughly a week, and their spending in local markets, fuel purchases, and other services directly strengthens our municipal tax revenue and supports long-term business development.” n nShe highlighted that among annual community events, the Tri-State Rodeo stands out as one of the most impactful in terms of financial contribution to the city. n nFor a full lineup of rodeo activities, visit the official event schedule online. n— news from WGEM n
— News Original —nLocal officials expect to see an economic boost from the Tri-State Rodeo n nFORT MADISON (WGEM) – The Tri-State Rodeo is roughly a week away from starting, with rodeo week officially kicking off Saturday with the Special Kids Rodeo. n nHowever, according to Fort Madison officials, the week is critical to the economy of the area. n nIn addition to people staying in Fort Madison, they are also helping by supporting local businesses. n nOfficials said this helps make a lot of the small annoyances with more people in town seem minor. n n“Sometimes, people that live in a community get a little frustrated that their commute to work is a little bit longer because there’s more people in town, but we really do gotta think about the economic impact that it has on our community,” said Savanna Collier, executive director of the Fort Madison Area Chamber of Commerce. “These people are here for a week or so, and they’re spending money in our grocery stores, and they’re buying gas, and that’s all adding to the value of our tax base in Fort Madison, and it’s helping our businesses grow.” n nCollier added that the Tri-State Rodeo in particular is arguably the most influential event for the area in terms of economic impact. n nFor a schedule of events for the Tri-State Rodeo, click here.
