HomeMy WebLinkAboutR-2002-053 Yakima Valley Visitors & Convention Bureau Agreement (re: Yakima Wine Information Center Operation / Yakima Center)RESOLUTION NO. R 2002 - 53
A RESOLUTION authorizing and directing the City Manager of the City of
Yakima to execute an agreement between the City of Yakima and
the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau, a non-profit
corporation, authorizing said organization to manage, operate
and maintain the Yakima Wine Information Center.
WHEREAS, the City is in the process of designing and constructing the
Yakima Wine Information Center ("Center") at 101 North Fair Avenue, Yakima,
Washington, for the purpose of promoting tourist activities vital to the local
economy; and
WHEREAS, the City does not have the personnel or resources necessary to
manage, operate and maintain the Center; and
WHEREAS, the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau is a non-profit
corporation whose membership represents the hospitality industry, for which the
Bureau serves as a focus of efforts to promote convention and tourist activities which
are vital to the local economy; and
WHEREAS, the Bureau has the experience and expertise to manage, operate
and maintain the Center, and is willing to do so in accordance with the terms and
conditions of the attached agreement; and
WHEREAS, the City Council deems it to be in the best interest of the City of
Yakima to authorize execution of an agreement between the City of Yakima and the
Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau in a form substantially similar to the
attached agreement, now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF YAKIMA:
The City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute an agreement
between the City of Yakima and the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau,
a non-profit corporation, authorizing said organization to manage, operate and
maintain the Yakima Wine Information Center. The form of the final agreement
(1k)res/comm dev-wine info center-apr 02.pm
shall be subject to review and approval of the City Attorney and shall be
substantially similar to the attached agreement.
ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL this 7th day of May, 2002.
ATTEST:
ict),..e.„fr, /88_4_,..A.z.„
City Clerk
(1k)res/comm dev-wine info center-apr 02.pm
//46(
ary Place, Mayor
YAKIMA WINE INFORMATION CENTER
MANAGEMENT AND PROMOTION AGREEMENT
This Yakima Wine Information Center Management and Promotion Agreem
(hereinafter the "Agreement") is executed this /.v day of MimC/1
and between the CITY OF YAKIMA, WASHINGTON, a municipal corporation (hereinafter
the "City"), and the YAKIMA VALLEY VISITORS AND CONVENTION BUREAU, a
Washington non-profit corporation (hereinafter "Bureau").
Whereas, the City is in the process of designing and constructing the Yakima Wine
Information Center ("Center") at 101 North Fair Avenue, Yakima, Washington. The Center
shall be used to promote tourist activities vital to the local economy. The City desires to
have the Bureau manage and promote the Center in accordance with the terms and
conditions of this Agreement.
Whereas, the Bureau is a non-profit corporation whose membership represents the
hospitality industry, for which the Bureau serves as a focus of efforts to promote
convention and tourist activities which are vital to the local economy. The Bureau is
willing to manage and promote the Yakima Wine Information Center in accordance with
the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
Now, therefore, in consideration of the mutual covenants, promises, and conditions
set forth herein, it is agreed by and between the City and the Bureau as follows:
1. Management and Operation Duties.
The Bureau shall manage, operate and maintain the Yakima Wine Information
Center located at 101 North Fair Avenue, Yakima, Washington. A legal description of the
real property upon which the Center shall be located is attached hereto as Exhibit "A" and
incorporated herein by this reference. The Executive Director of the Bureau shall serve as
Center Manager. The Bureau shall provide all personnel and general staff necessary for the
operation of the Center. The Bureau shall be solely responsible for all associated costs and
expenses of managing and operating the Center.
The Center shall be managed, operated and maintained by the Bureau for the
purpose of promoting tourist activities within the City and the Yakima Valley. The Bureau
shall manage, operate and maintain the Center in full compliance with any and all terms,
conditions, restrictions, limitation and other requirements imposed/mandated by the
Washington State Department of Transportation.
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2. Term of Agreement.
This Agreement shall commence upon full execution by the parties and shall
continue in duration until terminated by either party. Either party may terminate this
Agreement, with or without cause, by providing the other party with written notice of
termination at least ninety (90) calendar days prior to the termination date.
3. WSDOT Fees/Charges.
To the extent that the City is required to pay the Washington State Department of
Transportation ("WSDOT") any fees, charges or other compensation related to, or
associated with the operation of the Center, the Bureau shall reimburse the City for such
fees, charges, or other compensation within thirty (30) calendar days of payment by the
City to WSDOT.
4. Property Taxes.
The Bureau shall be responsible for and shall pay all property taxes, real and
personal, on the subject property, if any, and shall pay them as they come due, and shall
hold the City harmless therefrom.
5. Utilities.
The Bureau shall be responsible for and shall pay all charges for lights, heat, gas,
telephone, water, power and any other utilities associated with the management and
operation of the Center, and shall not allow any charge(s) therefore to become delinquent
or to become liens upon the property or any part thereof, and all charges of whatsoever
nature against the property caused in the course of management and operation of the
Center by the Bureau shall be paid before delinquency.
6. Building Operation and Maintenance.
The Bureau shall keep and maintain all portions of the Center and surrounding
grounds in an attractive, clean, sanitary, and usable condition at all times. Maintenance
shall include, but not be limited to: keeping the sidewalks and the parking area of the
Center free and clear of snow, ice, and other obstructions; keeping the grass, lawn, flowers,
and shrubbery of the Center adequately watered and in good order and condition;
replacement of broken glass; maintaining all wiring, lighting fixtures, plumbing, drainage,
heating, and air conditioning in good order and condition; and repair of damage resulting
from vandalism or accidents. The costs and expenses of said maintenance should be the
sole responsibility of the Bureau. Upon termination of this Agreement, the Bureau shall
surrender the Center surrounding premises to the City in as good a condition as such were
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at the commencement of the Agreement, reasonable wear and tear excepted.
7. Major Repairs.
No alterations, remodeling, major repairs (repairs in excess of $2,500.00), and capital
improvements to the Center and the surrounding grounds will be performed or
constructed without the written approval of the City. The costs and expenses of such
alterations, remodels, major repairs, and/or capitol improvements shall be mutually
agreed to by and between the City and the Bureau prior to the commencement of such
alterations, remodels, major repairs, and/or capitol improvements.
8. Records and Accounts.
The Bureau shall maintain (in accordance with generally accepted accounting
practices) books, accounts, records, documents and other materials related directly or
indirectly to the costs, expenses and revenues of the management, operation and
maintenance of the Center under this Agreement. All such books, accounts, records,
documents and other materials shall be subject to inspection and audit at reasonable times
by representatives of the City and/ or of the Washington State Auditor. The Bureau shall
make such books, accounts, records, documents and other materials available and afford
the proper facilities for such inspection and/or audit within forty-eight (48) hours of
inspection/ audit notification from City representatives and/ or the Washington State
Auditor. Such books, accounts, records, documents and other materials may be copied by
representatives of the City and/or of the Washington State Auditor as part of such an
inspection/audit. The Bureau shall preserve and make available all such books, accounts,
records, documents and other materials for a period of at least three (3) years after
termination of this Agreement.
9. Insurance.
a. Commercial Liability Insurance. On or before the date this Agreement is fully
executed by the parties, the Bureau shall provide the City with a certificate of insurance as
proof of commercial liability insurance with a minimum liability limit of One Million
Dollars ($1,000,000.00) combined single limit bodily injury and property damage. The
certificate shall clearly state who the provider is, the amount of coverage, the policy
number, and when the policy and provisions provided are in effect (any statement in the
certificate to the effect of "this certificate is issued as a matter of information only and
confers no right upon the certificate holder" shall be deleted). Said policy shall be in effect
for the duration of this Agreement. The policy shall name the City, its elected officials,
officers, agents, and employees as additional insureds, and shall contain a clause that the
insurer will not cancel or change the insurance without first giving the City thirty (30)
calendar days prior written notice (any language in the clause to the effect of "but failure to
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mail such notice shall impose no obligation or liability of any kind upon the company" shall
be crossed out and initialed by the insurance agent). The insurance shall be with an
insurance company or companies rated A -VII or higher in Best's Guide and admitted in the
State of Washington.
b. Fire Casualty & Extended Coverage Insurance. The City shall maintain all
necessary fire, casualty and extended coverage insurance on the Center and its contents in
such amount as the City deems appropriate. Any funds derived from such insurance shall
be used to repair or replace the damaged items or property, except should the property as a
whole be damaged to the extent of over fifty percent (50%) of its value, either party may
cancel this Agreement by written notice to the other within sixty (60) days following the
damage.
10. Hold Harmless and Indemnification.
(a) The Bureau agrees to protect, defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City,
its officers, elected officials, employees and agents from any and all claims, demands,
losses, liens, liabilities, penalties, fines, lawsuits, and other proceedings and all judgments,
awards, costs and expenses (including attorneys' fees and disbursements) caused by or
occurring by reason of any negligent act and/or omission of the Bureau, its officers,
employees, agents, and/ or subcontractors, arising out of or in connection with
management, operation and maintenance of the Center under this Agreement.
(b) In the event that both the Bureau and the City are negligent, the Bureau's
liability for indemnification of the City shall be limited to the contributory negligence for
any resulting suits, actions, claims, liability, damages, judgments, costs and expenses
(including reasonable attorney's fees) that can be apportioned to the Bureau, its officers,
employees, agents, and/ or subcontractors.
(c) Nothing contained in this Section or this Agreement shall be construed to vest
a right of indemnification in any third party.
(d) The provisions of this Section shall survive the termination or expiration of
this Agreement.
11. No Liability Insurance provided by City.
It is understood the City does not maintain liability insurance for the Bureau and/ or
its officers, employees, agents, instructors, and/ or subcontractors.
12. Report of Activities.
4
The Bureau shall submit to the City Council during February of each year a written
report addressing management, operational and promotion aspects of its performance of
this Agreement during the prior year.
13. Inspection of Center and Surrounding Premises.
The City and its agents or designates shall have the right to enter and inspect the
Center and surrounding premises at all reasonable times.
14. Independent Contractor.
In performing this agreement, the Bureau is an independent contractor, not subject
to control or direction from the City except for such oversight as is herein described and set
forth by City ordinance. All employees at the Center shall be employees of the Bureau and
shall make no claim of City employment nor shall claim against the City any related
employment benefits, social security, and/ or retirement benefits.
15. Taxes and Assessments.
The Bureau shall be solely responsible for compensating its officers, employees,
agents, and/ or subcontractors and for paying all related taxes, deductions, and
assessments, including but not limited to, federal income tax, FICA, social security tax,
assessments for unemployment and industrial injury, and other deductions from income
which may be required by law or assessed against either party as a result of the Bureau's
management, operation and maintenance of the Center. In the event the City is assessed a
tax or assessment as a result of this Agreement, the Bureau shall pay the same before it
becomes due.
16. Non -Discrimination.
During the performance of this Agreement, the Bureau shall not discriminate on the
basis of race, age, color, sex, religion, national origin, creed, marital status, political
affiliation, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical handicap. This provision
shall include but not be limited to the following: employment, upgrading, demotion,
transfer, recruitment, advertising, layoff or termination, rates of pay or other forms of
compensation, selection for training, and the management, operation and maintenance of
the Center under this Agreement.
17. The Americans With Disabilities Act.
The Bureau shall comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C.
§ 12101 et seq. (ADA), and its implementing regulations, and Washington State's anti -
5
discrimination law as contained in RCW Chapter 49.60 ("WLAD") and its implementing
regulations, with regard to the management, operation and maintenance of the Center
under this Agreement. The ADA and the WLAD provide comprehensive civil rights to
individuals with disabilities in the area of employment, public accommodations, public
transportation, state and local government services, and telecommunications.
18. Compliance With Law.
The Bureau shall manage, operate and maintain the Center under this Agreement in
full compliance with any and all applicable laws, rules, and regulations adopted or
promulgated by any governmental agency or regulatory body, whether federal, state, local,
or otherwise.
19. Assignment.
This Agreement, or any interest herein, or claim hereunder, shall not be assigned or
transferred in whole or in part by the Bureau to any other person or entity without the
prior written consent of the City. In the event that such prior written consent to an
assignment is granted, then the assignee shall assume all duties, obligations, and liabilities
of the Bureau as stated herein.
20. Severability.
If any portion of the Agreement is changed per mutual agreement or any portion is
held invalid, the remainder of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
21. Non -Waiver.
The waiver by the Bureau or the City of the breach of any provision of this
Agreement by the other party shall not operate or be construed as a waiver of any
subsequent breach by either party or prevent either party thereafter enforcing any such
provision.
22. Notices.
Unless stated otherwise herein, all notices and demands shall be in writing and sent
or hand -delivered to the parties at their addresses as follows:
To City:
6
City Manager
City of Yakima
129 N. 2nd St.
Yakima, WA 98901
To Bureau:
or to such addresses as the parties may hereafter designate in writing. Notices and/or
demands shall be sent by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid or hand -delivered.
Such notices shall be deemed effective when mailed or hand -delivered at the addresses
specified above.
23. Survival.
Any provision of this Agreement which imposes an obligation after termination or
expiration of this Agreement shall survive the term or expiration of this Agreement and
shall be binding on the parties to this Agreement.
24. Integration and Supersession.
This Agreement sets forth all of the terms, conditions, and agreements of the parties
relative to the subject matter hereof and supersedes any and all such former agreements
which are hereby declared terminated and of no further force and effect upon the execution
and delivery hereof. There are no terms, conditions, or agreements with respect thereto,
except as herein provided and no amendment or modification of this Agreement shall be
effective unless reduced to writing and executed by the parties.
25. Governing Law.
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of
the State of Washington.
26. Venue.
The venue for any action to enforce or interpret this Agreement shall lie in the
Superior Court of Washington for Yakima County, Washington.
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CITY OF YAKIMA, WASHINGTON
By:
Date:
City Manager
er
YAKIMA VALLEY VISITORS AND
CONVENTION BUREAU, INC.
By: 0.- e-0
President of the Board
Date: v7/0-3
ATTEST:
Date:
City Clerk
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RESOLUTION HOb ..kf? el'.S3
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BUSINESS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
YAKIMA, WASHINGTON
AGENDA STATEMENT
Item No. c
For Meeting of May 7, 2002
ITEM TITLE: Consideration of a Resolution authorizing an agreement to operate the
Yakima Wine Information Center
SUBMITTED BY: Department. of Community and Economic Development -
CONTACT PERSON/TELEPHONE:/J$Vl hiam R. Cook, CED Department Director, 575-6227.
SUMMARY EXPLANATION:
Attached is the Yakima Wine Information Center Management and Promotion Agreement
for the Yakima Gateway to Wine Country located at 101 North Fair Avenue, Yakima,
Washington. This agreement is between the City of Yakima and the Yakima Valley
Visitors and Convention Bureau to manage, operate and maintain the Yakima Wine
Information Center. The Center shall be used to promote tourist activities vital to the
local economy. The Bureau shall be solely responsible for all associated costs and
expenses of managing and operating the Center including building operation and
maintenance of the surrounding grounds.
Please note the legal description will be added at a later date.
Resolution X Ordinance Contract X Other (Specify)
Funding Source
APPROVED FOR SUBMITTAL:
3 City Manager
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approve Agreement.
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION:
COUNCIL ACTION: Resolution adopted. RESOLUTION NO. R-2002-53
Fulfilling the Promise
of
Wine Country
The Yakima Valley
Visitor Information Center
Executive Summary
The Visitors Information Center
THE OPPORTUNITY IS NOW
Although relatively young, the Washington wine
industry has more than doubled in size during the past
decade and as a result ranks second nationally in total
wine production. A new study shows that the
Washington State wine industry is growing rapidly
and has become a major player in the state's economy
with a $2.4 billion impact and a workforce of more
than 11,000. Recently, Washington was named the
worldwide "Wine Region of the Year for 2001" by a
major industry publication.
The growth of the wine industry has created an
opportunity to enhance and expand tourism in the
Yakima Valley. To capture this market, the region
needs a prominent visitor center to attract and acquaint
the increasing number of visitors with the diverse
characteristics of the region, especially our history and
its significance and impact on the state's economy and
history. Existing visitor information centers lack both
visibility and convenient access, and there is a severe
shortage of facilities that make alternative modes of
transportation more convenient.
Yakima is located at the geographic entrance to the state's first two designated
appellations: Yakima Valley and Columbia Valley. The Yakima Valley Appellation
is Washington's first approved viticulture area, established in 1983. The foothills of
the Cascades form the western boundary with the area extending east to the Kiona
Hills near Richland. The Yakima River and the Roza and Sunnyside canals form a
network of irrigation that has led to the state's highest percentage of vineyard
plantings per square mile.
iii
THE INFORMATION CENTER
Capitalizing on this emerging opportunity, the Yakima Valley Visitors and
Convention Bureau and the City of Yakima, with the endorsement of the Washington
Wine Commission and the Washington Office of Tourism Development, have
secured $350,000 in federal funding to develop the Gateway to Wine Country Visitor
Information Center.
The Yakima Valley Appellation is bi-sected by Interstate 82, which provides a
convenient arterial route for tourists to visit the many wineries concentrated in the
area. Located at the western end of the appellation, and directly off of an interstate
exit, the Gateway to Wine Country Visitor Center will provide optimal visibility and
accessibility. The Center will provide valuable information and education to travelers
in a diverse array of subjects, including:
• Travel information for tourists including maps, most convenient route
connections, popular bicycle and pedestrian routes, charter transportation, traffic
advisories and points of historical and cultural significance.
• Wine country visitor information, including viticulture education, history of
the industry, featured events, travel information and directions.
• Community profiles and calendars of events for cities and towns throughout
Washington Wine Country.
• History of culture, agriculture and heritage in Central Washington.
iv
STRATEGIC LOCATION
The center will be located on Fair Avenue between Exits #33a and #33b. The City of
Yakima has recently built a Park and Ride immediately north of the proposed VIC
property.
The Center is strategically located at the eastern entrance to the Yakima appellation to
capture westbound tourism traffic from the Puget Sound region, which is where most
Yakima Valley tourism traffic originates. Located near the confluence of several
regional corridors with I-82, the Center will serve to "push" traffic through these
important corridors, including US 12, HWY 97, SR 24, SR 241, SR 22, and Wine
Country Road. All of these corridors are also significant corridors to the wine
industry in Eastern Washington.
Regardless of the final destination, the Center will provide information on
restaurants, hotels, shopping, attractions, and wineries. It will also have public
restrooms available to visitors. The facility will provide local businesses an
opportunity to be highlighted to visitors offering a potential for new business sales.
The Center will also serve as an information hub for other regions in Washington
State. This includes Visitor Guides and brochures on regions and attractions in
Washington State, thereby encouraging travel and tourism throughout the State.
v
Interior Components
The facility will include a visitor information counter, extensive shelving, brochure
display areas, and a product show room. A large illuminated display map featuring
our region will be placed on the main wall behind the reception area The purpose of
the map is to feature the region and its assets. This includes directions, travel
distances, attractions, hotel and dining facilities, and other services available to
tourists from Yakima to Walla Walla.
The visitor information counter will offer an appropriate area for travel counselors to
meet the public. The counter will serve as the business center with a computer,
Internet, copy services, fax and telephone. Shelving on the walls will allow display
and distribution of Visitor Guides, brochures, maps, etc. A product showroom will
display items featuring the Valley.
vi
Exterior Components
The exterior design of the center evokes a strong Wine Country image using simple
forms and Yakima materials. The facility is compact and designed for best interior
function and high visibility from the freeway. Clerestory windows provide light and
allow for maximization of display walls within the facility. Exterior walls feature
native basalt stone. A trellis extending across the front offers shade, vines and a
memorable feature to the design_ Budget allowing, a patio area will provide space
for small gatherings or meetings. Trellises and planting areas offer esthetics to
outdoor space.
vii
SIGNAGE
As a designated Visitor Information Center, the facility will be provided with
interstate signage from the DOT. The interstate signage will consist of the traditional
blue metal signs placed at an adequate distance from the exit, as specified by DOT.
The signs will be visible to eastbound visitors prior to Exit #33a and for westbound
visitors before Exit #34. It is expected that there will be a minimum of two signs
prior to each exit. The signs will be built and placed by DOT.
TARGET AUDIENCE
Research indicates that the typical traveller to the Yakima Valley is 35-54 years old, eams
an annual income of $82,000 per year, and spends 3.4 nights per average visit. Of those
visiting, 52% of the visitors are men and 48% are women. In terms of marketing, the
Puget Sound prevails as the largest single market for Yakima Valley with 56% of the
visitors originating from the Seattle/Tacoma area
Emerging travel trends fit our area well. It is expected that there will be more close -to -
home, drive -to travel. With 56% of Yakima Valley visitors originating from a market
2.5 hours from Yakima, auto travel is an important segment for the local tourist
industry.
It has become clear that most visitors (71 %) come to visit wineries, while 51% come to the
Yakima Valley to sightsee or participate in driving tours. Visitors who come to the
Yakima Valley are primarily empty -nest couples (49%) and 40% of those who visit spend
the night.
Source: James Lillstrom and Associates, Washington
Wine Country Visitor Profile 2000.
OWNERSHIP & LEAD ENTITY
The Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau (YVVCB), a private, non-profit
corporation is recognized as Yakima's official visitor promotion agency. The
property and the new Visitor Information Center will be owned by the City of
Yakima.
STAFFING AND HOURS OF OPERATION
The Visitor Information Center will be staffed with one full-time paid staff person,
and one part-time star The primary responsibility of staff is to identify, recruit,
train and schedule volunteer travel counselors. Hours of operation for the Visitor
Center are as follows:
Month
Monday - Saturday Sunday
March 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. Closed
April 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
May 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Memorial Day 8:30 a.m. — 5:00 p.m.
June 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
July 9:00 am.- 5:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Independence Day 9:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m.
August 9:00 am.- 5:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
September 9:00 am.- 5:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Labor Day 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. 10:00 am. — 4:00 p.m.
October 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
November - February Monday - Friday Closed
10:00 a.m. — 3:00 p.m.
Presidents Day Weekend 9:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m.
Veterans Day Closed
Thanksgiving Closed
Day after Thanksgiving 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.
Thanksgiving Weekend 9:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m.
December Office Closed Office Closed
Christmas Day Closed
ix
Bronze Level Partnership
$275.00 per year
Silver Level Partnership
$1,000.00 per year
Gold Level Partnership
$2,000.00 per year
Basic Membership and distribution of collateral materials
at both Visitor Information Centers.
Basic Membership plus a 10" x 10" decorative framed
picture on an engraved plaque displaying the name of the
business. The picture may have awards, address, etc.
incorporated within the picture. Display will be in the new
Visitor Center (VIC). Business may distribute collateral
materials at both Visitor Information Centers. Minimum
two year term.
Basic Membership plus identification as a member in a
14" x 12" display case. Sponsors can display products,
awards, brochures, etc. A design review committee will
approve submitted materials. Display materials will be
created and maintained by sponsor. This level receives all
preceding benefits including a plaque at the new VIC.
Distribution of collateral materials at both Visitor
Information Centers. Minimum three year term.
Platinum Level Partnership
$3,000.00 per year Basic Membership plus a photograph or label of choice
mounted on the prominent illuminated display board
surrounding the regional location map at the new VIC. A
design review committee will approve submitted materials.
This level includes distribution of collateral materials at
both Visitor Information Centers. Minimum three year
term.
Diamond Partnership
$5,000.00 per year
Association Partnership
$4,500.00 per year
Basic Membership plus a four year term to support the
purchase of a Wine Country Display Board at the new VIC.
Business photo or label mounted on illuminated display
board. This partnership also allows each business partner all
of the preceding benefits including plaque, case display and
distribution of collateral materials at both Visitor
Information Centers.
Four year term to support the new VIC. Association name
and image displayed on a large decorative engraved plaque.
No preceding benefits are included. This is the only
sponsorship level available to associations.
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Visitor Information Center
YAKIMA, WASN1h6ITON
Celebrate Washington's Wine Country
A Vision for Our Region
Our opportunity is now. The ingredients are all here. Sunshine, recreation and the craft industry of wine
are key components to our economic future.
Central Washington's scenery and climate make it a special destination in the Northwest. Our hills and
arid climate produce a landscape of ridges, basalt outcroppings and a treeless horizon that allows one to see
for great distance. Irrigation has brought forth the green valleys that sharply contrast with the dry
surrounding hillsides. Sunlight is abundant. Clouds are always high and non -oppressive. Our location, only
2.5 hours from the damp forests and mist of Puget Sound, makes our scenery even more dramatic. We need
only to solidify our vision and our identity.
A strong common vision influences everything around it. Claiming the Wine Country as our centerpiece
needs to be our vision. From Yakima and Zillah to Walla Walla, the Wine Country is a special and
welcome change from western Washington. We need to speak with a cohesive voice. We can't compete
with each other. We need to be unified to sell our products and to attract business from Seattle, Portland,
our region, the nation and internationally.
We need to think regionally. Seattle and Portland will be enhanced by the ability to showcase another area
of the state. Yakima and the Wine Country will become a significant sub -destination. Working in
cooperation with these metropolitan areas, we can use all the strength of Seattle and Portland's tourism
efforts along with our own to bring international visitors to the Northwest and to the Wine Country. The
Wine Country will energize our State and bring an experience of the upper Pacific Rim like no other
destination.
Yakima needs to claim its place in the State. As citizens of Eastern Washington, we know we are an
honest, recreation and community oriented society, proud of our forefathers who brought irrigation to
cultivate the land. We are rich in Native American culture and we understand the care and hard work of
farming for generations. We know that the quality of our agriculture is as real as the people who produce
it. We have an opportunity to enhance our identity dramatically. And do it with a very nice cachet. We
need to get into step with the State at both a local and a regional level to claim our identity as a desirable,
craft industry based community in a spectacular arid setting.
All industries are related. We need to see tourism as part of a strategic plan. Tourism doesn't just benefit
tourism. Tourism is exposure and image. Tourism will get high tech and manufacturing industry here
faster than all the ads we could pay for and all of the land we could ever give away. People live in a place
for its lifestyle and identity. The high quality of Washington wine has attracted international attention. We
have license to embrace this fact, claim it, and celebrate it along with a high quality lifestyle.
Everyone can help. This includes the Visitors and the Convention Center, the Chamber of Commerce, the
City, the County, the State, New Vision, private industry, all can cooperate with a common goal to claim
our identity as Washington's Wine Country. The result is real pride of place and real pride of industry.
Viva La Wine Country!
Christopher Swanson
Yakima Valley Visitors & Convention Bureau
Yakima, Washington
Visitor Information Center
FAQ'S
Where is it Located?
On Fair Avenue across from Pier 1 Imports next to the Park & Ride in Yakima.
What is the Access?
Access is directly off I-82 on the Fair Avenue Exit #33A
And Westbound at Exit #34
Will there be Signage?
Yes, Washington State Dept of Transportation (DOT) will provide signage prior to
both Exits.
Wine Country Visitor Demographics
56% from Seattle / Tacoma
71% come to see Wineries
Source: James Lillstrom and Associates,
Washington Wine Country Visitor Profile 2000
Traffic counts Along 1-82
According to DOT there are approximately 40,000 cars driving by this site per day.
Based on counts at both Selah and Union Gap, it is estimated that approximately
18,000 cars pass through the Yakima Valley per day
What is the Benefit to Business?
A high quality, educational point of interest that draws off I-82
Exposure of Businesses to Travelers
Directions to Businesses are Provided
What is the Benefit to Travelers?
Understanding of our Region
Information Hub
Schedules of Events
Restroom Stop
Hours of Operation
Seasonal
7 days a week during Tourism Season
What is the Square Footage of the Building?
Approximately 1,600 to 2,000 sf depending on bid alternates.