Economic Impact and Contribution Study of Whitewater Center in Charlotte, NC

Abstract

The Virginia Tech Center for Economic and Community Engagement (CECE) conducted a comprehensive economic and social impact analysis of the Whitewater Center, a 1300-acre outdoor recreational facility situated on the Catawba River 15 minutes from downtown Charlotte, North Carolina. The primary aim of this study was to understand the economic influence of the Whitewater Center on the Charlotte Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), specifically its impact on the local economy, including job creation, employee compensation, fiscal impact, and overall economic output. The Whitewater Center is an economic and cultural pillar of Charlotte. As one of the most visited attractions in the Carolinas and a leading provider of green space, Whitewater significantly enhances the quality of life of the greater Charlotte community and its visitors. Its economic impact is equally substantial, contributing over $7M in taxes and $158M to the Charlotte region.