$88.6 million. That is the estimated amount of economic activity generated by the Maritime Aquarium according to a report released on March 11 by the City of Norwalk and the Maritime Aquarium itself. The figure includes the impact of employment, tourism, capital investments and programing.
The report indicates a 25% growth from 2007 when the impact was last calculated, and $55.8 million of positive economic impact for the City itself.
The Maritime Aquarium, once home to the state’s first IMAX theater before demolition to make way for the WALK Bridge project along the Metro North line, is credited in the report for providing an “anchor” location for Norwalk and spearheading the revitalization of South Norwalk. What was once a post-industrial landscape of shuttered factories has become one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city.
“The Economic Impact Report reaffirms what we already knew; the benefits of The Maritime Aquarium touch the lives of every single Norwalker and even generate a positive economic impact throughout our state and region,” said City of Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling in a press release regarding the report.
The more than 480,000 guests the Aquarium attracted in 2022 are believed to have spent $34.8 million at local restaurants shops and hotels, and wages for its employees represent at least $7 million.
“Serving our community is a source of pride for us at the Aquarium. The economic benefits to the city and the state go hand-in-hand with an extraordinary effort of our staff and volunteers on the day-to-day operations to ensure the highest care and well being of our animals, and the world-class experiences for our guests. I am pleased that in addition to the economic benefits we provide, this report highlights the benefits and future potential impact of our conservation and education programs,” said The Maritime Aquarium President and CEO Jason Patlis.
The full report can be read here: https://assets.speakcdn.com/assets/2531/maritime_aquarium_economic_impact_study_september_2023.pdf
