South Shore CVA: Radisson Loss Drag on Economy
Construction of the new hotel is expected to be complete in 2018.
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority says the demolition of the Radisson at Star Plaza in Merrillville will deal a substantial blow to the region’s economy. Our partners at The Times of Northwest Indiana report the organization estimates losing the hotel and conference center next year will have a $20 million impact.
The publication reports the SSCVA estimates it could lose out on some 83,000 room nights and a total of 90 groups or events. Director of Communications Erika Dahl tells The Times "that’s not including any groups we could have scheduled in the next year or two. The economic impact of just room revenue lost is more than $10 million. That doesn’t take into account additional spending in the economy at nearby attractions, restaurants, gas stations, shopping centers, etc."
The aging Radisson is being torn down and replaced with an upscale hotel that will feature less conference space. That project could be complete in the summer of 2018. The SSCVA says out-of-towners spend nearly $480 million in Lake County every year.
You can read more about the numbers from our partners at The Times of Northwest Indiana by clicking here.