economic
benefit
"As an economic engine, the Terraquarium will immediately become our region's primary tourist attraction and will serve as a catalyst for revitalizing Bellingham's waterfront. Not only will it bring new jobs, but it will have a significant economic multiplier effect by serving as a destination that inspires visitors to stay - and stay longer."
Jay Bornstein
President of Bornstein Seafoods
Lifelong Bellingham Resident
By combining the finest features of the world’s top aquariums with 21st century technology, the Northwest TerrAquarium will be a magnet that draws families from throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
Many aquariums throughout the country are significant economic drivers in their cities, states, and regions. The Northwest TerrAquarium will be no exception. The following facilities, built in similarly populated locations, each provided significant positive economic impact on their communities. They measurably increased tourism in each case, and encouraged economic revitalization within proximity of their sites.
South Carolina Aquarium - Charleston, SC. (www.scaquarium.org)
Tennessee Aquarium - Chattanooga, TN. ( www.tnaqua.org)
Monterey Bay Aquarium - Monterey, CA. ( www.mbayaq.org)
Based on employment data from other aquariums, it is expected that from 100 to 150 direct permanent jobs will be necessary for Northwest TerrAquarium operations. These will be largely, if not entirely, living wage jobs and include marine biologists, researchers, educators, nonprofit administrators, office support workers, food service personnel, and more.
During construction and after completion, the TerrAquarium will provide employment for construction workers, land-scapers, commercial boat operators, tour guides, hospitality workers, mass transit providers, and a very broad range of retail businesses.
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