New report looks at economic impact of Meijer Gardens

GRAND RAPIDS TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — A newly released report dove into the economic impact of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

Grand Valley State University conducted the report. Its key findings include Meijer Gardens’ total economic impact of $138 million annually, support of 1,167 jobs and contribution of $77.6 million to Kent County’s gross domestic product.

According to the report, Meijer Gardens attracts around 755,000 visitors yearly, with 62 percent coming from outside Kent County. Of those, 36 percent said the main reason for visiting Kent County was Meijer Gardens.

When it comes to tax revenue, Meijer Gardens contributes more than $353,000 to Kent County each year.

“This Economic Impact Report, compiled by our partners at Grand Valley State University, highlights the substantial influence of Meijer Gardens in the region. It is a testament to how art, culture, and nature can harmoniously drive economic growth and prosperity in West Michigan and beyond,” Meijer Gardens President and CEO Charles Burke said in a news release.

The full report can be found online.

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