Arts Mean Business

Local nonprofit arts and culture organizations were in for a treat when Amerians for the Arts released a study showing that the arts has a significant impact on the economy in Alachua County. In 2010, a study reported that nonprofit arts and culture organizations generated $85.5 million and created more than 2,000 full time jobs.

“Not only are we [Alachua County] fulfilling the human soul with the work that we do culturally and spiritually,” said Russell Etling, cultural affairs programs coordinator for the City of Gainesville, “But we’re also bolstering the economic matrix that makes out community run and grow.”

Currently, Alachua County is home to the Hippodrome Theatre, Dance Alive National Ballet, Gainesville Chamber Orchestra and additional art-based organizations that put on productions year round. The Hippodrome Theatre, a professional state theater, has about 30 full-time employees, 20 part-time employees and 15 interns.

“I think that the arts in Alachua County are the equivalent that you would have in one of Florida’s bigger cities like Tampa, Miami, Orlando,” said Jessica Hurov, director of marketing at the Hippodrome. “We are at the level, even though on a map we’re a much smaller city.”

The Hippodrome attracts roughly 200,000 visitors each year and brings in travelers from outside of Alachua County. As a result, the travelers have a larger impact on the local economy by purchasing gas, meals, parking and the possibility of staying at a bed and breakfast or hotel.

To read the full article in WUFT, click here.