Economic Impact
WE MEAN BUSINESS!
Literally! Center in the Square means growth in business on many levels. By combining multiple cultural and educational attractions in a central downtown location, Center in the Square has been a unique and decisive catalyst for downtown renewal and a focal point of the Roanoke community as well as an attraction for western Virginia and beyond.
Vibrant cultural districts hold strong appeal to younger people whose skills are seen as essential to success and sustained growth in many regions.
This holds true for Center in the Square and its impact on our region. Our annual economic influence is estimated at $19 million. As an anchor in downtown Roanoke, Center in the Square is a major component in attracting new business to the region with over 350 new businesses opening in the area since Center was established.
Our success has inspired others to invest over $850 million in construction and renovation projects in the immediate market area, including The Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center, the Norfolk Southern building, Wachovia Tower, Jefferson Center, and the Higher Education Center. Collectively Center's organizations serve over 400,000 visitors annually from across the nation and at least twenty foreign countries. Yes, Center in the Square truly means business!