AgdaPkt 2003-01-13 - Laserfiche WebLink

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i 51 REPORT To the City Council and Redevelopment Agency Board From the City Manager and the Executive Director January 13, 2003 Subject Proposed International Cycling Event Recommendation That the City of Redwood City and the Redwood City Redevelopment Agency host a proposed world class bicycle race, the "2003 Sea Otter Classic Elite Road Stage Race," and authorize a budget appropriation from un- appropriated Redevelopment funds for public support and in -kind services in an amount not -to- exceed $25,000. Background Redevelopment is most often a partnership with the private sector, where public funds are used to generate private investment for the public good by creating an atmosphere where business can thrive. The elimination of blight often requires an investment not only in physical improvements, but in programs and activities that promote and market an area in orderto attract customers and investors. An annual program of special events in the Downtown is one of the ways to create just such an environment. The annual Fourth of July parade, as well as the summer concert series "Live in Downtown" are such events. The "Gingerbread Village" has the potential to become an annual attraction that will bring people Downtown during the holiday season. However, additional signature events are needed to expand upon and reinforce the vision articulated in the Downtown Area Plan of Downtown Redwood City as the "heart of the city" and a "vibrant urban and friendly environment for residents, workers and visitors." The "2003 Sea Otter Classic Elite Road Stage Race" proposed by Redwood City resident Rick Sutton is such a signature event. Mr. Sutton's company Gale Force, Inc. Sports Marketing produces the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey, which is entering its 13"' year. It is scheduled for April 10 -13 in 2003. The Classic is North America's largest cycling festival and is considered the global season opener for all forms of bicycle racing and recreational riding. Over 10,000 Mountain Bike, Road, and BMX athletes, including Olympic, World and National Champions, and 50,000 spectators attended the 2002 event. With the start and finish line in Downtown, many of these spectators will experience the heart of Redwood City. Over 200 international media representatives attended in 2002, producing over 300 million impressions. Outdoor Life Network televised a one -hour special in 2002. The race proposed for Redwood City would be an extension of the Sea Otter Classic north into the San Francisco Peninsula. By adding "days and miles" to the front -end of the four -day — Monterey festival, a promotional "freight'.-- n" of international cyclists will travel around the State