from today's Boating Industry news (6/27):
Dealer profits gaining ground
"SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The average dealer tracked by Spader Business Management is reporting a net profit of $17,198 for the five months ending May 31, compared to $146,039 during the same period of last year, a decline of 88.2 percent.
That may not sound like cause for celebration, but in contrast to last month's report, which suggested Spader dealers' profits were down 476 percent, compared to the same period of 2007, it's a dramatic improvement." ...
for the complete story try www.boating-industry.com whose web page is currently not working -- possibly a casualty of those increased sales.
Friday, June 27, 2008
KB Home sales down
from today's Los Angeles Business Journal (6/27):
KB Posts Steeper-Than-Expected Second Quarter Loss
By ALLEN P. ROBERTS Jr. - 6/27/2008
Los Angeles Business Journal Staff
"Los Angeles-based homebuilder KB Home reported a second quarter loss Friday that was more than three times greater than analysts expected, sending shares down nearly 7 percent.
The second-quarter net loss, KB’s fifth consecutive quarterly loss, was $256 million (-$3.30 per share). Wall Street was expecting a loss of 94 cents per share, according to a Thomson Financial poll. A year ago, KB posted a second quarter loss of $149 million (-$1.93).
Revenue plunged to $639 million from $1.41 billion in the same period a year earlier thanks in large part to lower housing and land sale revenues. Analysts were expecting sales of $691 million." ...
for the complete story
“Housing market conditions remain difficult for the homebuilding industry, with inventories of unsold homes expanding as foreclosures rise to record highs, and consumer confidence continuing to deteriorate amid signs of weakness in the general economy,” KB’s Chief Executive Jeff Mezger said in a statement.
KB Posts Steeper-Than-Expected Second Quarter Loss
By ALLEN P. ROBERTS Jr. - 6/27/2008
Los Angeles Business Journal Staff
"Los Angeles-based homebuilder KB Home reported a second quarter loss Friday that was more than three times greater than analysts expected, sending shares down nearly 7 percent.
The second-quarter net loss, KB’s fifth consecutive quarterly loss, was $256 million (-$3.30 per share). Wall Street was expecting a loss of 94 cents per share, according to a Thomson Financial poll. A year ago, KB posted a second quarter loss of $149 million (-$1.93).
Revenue plunged to $639 million from $1.41 billion in the same period a year earlier thanks in large part to lower housing and land sale revenues. Analysts were expecting sales of $691 million." ...
for the complete story
“Housing market conditions remain difficult for the homebuilding industry, with inventories of unsold homes expanding as foreclosures rise to record highs, and consumer confidence continuing to deteriorate amid signs of weakness in the general economy,” KB’s Chief Executive Jeff Mezger said in a statement.
san Diego Padres sales suffering
from today's San Diego Business Journal (6/27):
Marlins, Braves and $5.50 Beer: Padres Trim Snack Bar Prices in July
By - 6/26/2008
San Diego Business Journal Staff
"Responding to dwindling attendance at Petco Park, the Padres announced June 26 a discount promotion for all the team’s home games in July.
July Dollar Days cuts the prices by $1 on hot dogs, soft drinks and beer. The Padres play nine home games in July." ...
for the complete story
Marlins, Braves and $5.50 Beer: Padres Trim Snack Bar Prices in July
By - 6/26/2008
San Diego Business Journal Staff
"Responding to dwindling attendance at Petco Park, the Padres announced June 26 a discount promotion for all the team’s home games in July.
July Dollar Days cuts the prices by $1 on hot dogs, soft drinks and beer. The Padres play nine home games in July." ...
for the complete story
Caribbean tourism
from today's USA Today (6/27):
Airline cutbacks cause concern in the Caribbean
By Barbara De Lollis and Barbara Hansen, USA TODAY
"Could airline cutbacks send Caribbean beachgoers elsewhere this winter?
That's the growing concern of Caribbean tourism industry leaders as they grapple with a double whammy of reduced air service and a slumping U.S. economy.
A reduction in air service — the only way for most Americans to reach the Caribbean's white-sand beaches — could make the journey less convenient and airfares more expensive, ultimately discouraging trips." ...
"For December, U.S. airlines scheduled 17% less service from the lower 48 states to the Caribbean islands, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, compared with December 2007, according to an analysis of OAG flight schedules. Other findings:
•Of the five carriers that provide most of the service — American, US Airways, Delta, Continental and JetBlue — only JetBlue grew capacity.
•Service is down to the four most-served islands. In December, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic will have 26% less service; Jamaica is down 15%, and the Bahamas down 10%." ...
for the complete story including tables
Airline cutbacks cause concern in the Caribbean
By Barbara De Lollis and Barbara Hansen, USA TODAY
"Could airline cutbacks send Caribbean beachgoers elsewhere this winter?
That's the growing concern of Caribbean tourism industry leaders as they grapple with a double whammy of reduced air service and a slumping U.S. economy.
A reduction in air service — the only way for most Americans to reach the Caribbean's white-sand beaches — could make the journey less convenient and airfares more expensive, ultimately discouraging trips." ...
"For December, U.S. airlines scheduled 17% less service from the lower 48 states to the Caribbean islands, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, compared with December 2007, according to an analysis of OAG flight schedules. Other findings:
•Of the five carriers that provide most of the service — American, US Airways, Delta, Continental and JetBlue — only JetBlue grew capacity.
•Service is down to the four most-served islands. In December, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic will have 26% less service; Jamaica is down 15%, and the Bahamas down 10%." ...
for the complete story including tables
Thursday, June 26, 2008
HI tourism suffering
from yesterday's CNN Money (6/25):
Hawaii suffers a tourism blow
High fuel prices have forced up airfare, pushing a Hawaiian vacation out of reach for many cash-strapped Americans.
By Chris Lawrence, CNN
Last Updated: June 25, 2008: 6:24 PM EDT
"Honolulu (CNN American Morning) -- A balmy breeze gently blows across the beach, with the warm, clear water of the Pacific Ocean just a few feet away. It's a place honeymooners and families go to get away from it all. But these days, things aren't so perfect in paradise.
High fuel prices have caused airfares to skyrocket. And the economy has caused some Americans to postpone or downsize their travel plans. Fewer tourists are coming to Hawaii, and some think the problems are only beginning.
ATA and Aloha Airlines have already gone bust. And starting next week, two Japanese airlines will increase fuel surcharges on flights to Hawaii by 43%. American Airlines just announced plans to eliminate its Chicago-Honolulu route at the end of the year." ...
"Tourism officials are spending nearly $5 million to market Hawaii in the United States and Asia. Hawaii lawmakers are putting more pressure on the Tourism Authority to aggressively sell the state. One state senator says Hawaii has a brewing crisis on its hands, and wants the state to be proactive before things get really bad." ...
for the complete story
Hawaii suffers a tourism blow
High fuel prices have forced up airfare, pushing a Hawaiian vacation out of reach for many cash-strapped Americans.
By Chris Lawrence, CNN
Last Updated: June 25, 2008: 6:24 PM EDT
"Honolulu (CNN American Morning) -- A balmy breeze gently blows across the beach, with the warm, clear water of the Pacific Ocean just a few feet away. It's a place honeymooners and families go to get away from it all. But these days, things aren't so perfect in paradise.
High fuel prices have caused airfares to skyrocket. And the economy has caused some Americans to postpone or downsize their travel plans. Fewer tourists are coming to Hawaii, and some think the problems are only beginning.
ATA and Aloha Airlines have already gone bust. And starting next week, two Japanese airlines will increase fuel surcharges on flights to Hawaii by 43%. American Airlines just announced plans to eliminate its Chicago-Honolulu route at the end of the year." ...
"Tourism officials are spending nearly $5 million to market Hawaii in the United States and Asia. Hawaii lawmakers are putting more pressure on the Tourism Authority to aggressively sell the state. One state senator says Hawaii has a brewing crisis on its hands, and wants the state to be proactive before things get really bad." ...
for the complete story
Planet Hollywood branding
from today's Hotels newsfeed (6/26);
Planet Hollywood To Launch Branding Division
-- Hotels, 6/26/2008 8:22:00 AM
"Las Vegas, NV- June 24, 2008 - Following the successful launch of its first mega-resort, Planet Hollywood International Inc. today announced that is has created a new division to oversee its plans for international brand expansion. The new branch will work to quickly expand the Planet Hollywood brand as it develops hotel and vacation ownership properties both domestically and internationally. Planet Hollywood entered the hospitality business four years ago when it purchased Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in a partnership that includes Bay Harbour LLC, Robert Earl and Starwood Hotels & Resorts.
As part of the announcement of the new division, Planet Hollywood named William (Bill) Feather the President of Planet Hollywood Resorts Management, LLC. In his new position Feather will be responsible for expanding the Planet Hollywood brand in the hotel and vacation ownership industries and will remain based out of Las Vegas. While taking on his new role, Feather will continue to manage the hotel and food & beverage operations at the flagship Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Feather’s first project with the new company will be the launch and management the of Planet Hollywood Towers a partnership between Planet Hollywood and Westgate Resorts, set to open in 2009." ...
for the complete story
Planet Hollywood To Launch Branding Division
-- Hotels, 6/26/2008 8:22:00 AM
"Las Vegas, NV- June 24, 2008 - Following the successful launch of its first mega-resort, Planet Hollywood International Inc. today announced that is has created a new division to oversee its plans for international brand expansion. The new branch will work to quickly expand the Planet Hollywood brand as it develops hotel and vacation ownership properties both domestically and internationally. Planet Hollywood entered the hospitality business four years ago when it purchased Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in a partnership that includes Bay Harbour LLC, Robert Earl and Starwood Hotels & Resorts.
As part of the announcement of the new division, Planet Hollywood named William (Bill) Feather the President of Planet Hollywood Resorts Management, LLC. In his new position Feather will be responsible for expanding the Planet Hollywood brand in the hotel and vacation ownership industries and will remain based out of Las Vegas. While taking on his new role, Feather will continue to manage the hotel and food & beverage operations at the flagship Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Feather’s first project with the new company will be the launch and management the of Planet Hollywood Towers a partnership between Planet Hollywood and Westgate Resorts, set to open in 2009." ...
for the complete story
Monday, June 23, 2008
Sports events and hospitality programs
from today's Street and SMith's Sports Business Journal (6/23):
Creating experiences that pay off
Brands, agencies seek to make memories and make the deal with beefed-up hospitality programs
By JON SHOW
June 23, 2008
"Corporate hospitality at sporting events started out as a way to entertain clients with a ticket and a hot dog. It has developed into an industry with sophisticated methods to determine return on investment and a focus on providing a first-class experience." ...
"The exact size of the corporate sports hospitality industry is unknown, but industry executives estimate the size between $1 billion and $2 billion annually, depending on the timing of high-value, quadrennial events such as the Summer Olympics and FIFA World Cup.
Brands and agency executives point to two areas that have shaped changes to corporate hospitality in recent years: more of a focus on ROI and providing high-quality, unique client experiences.
Proving ROI was a natural outgrowth from existing legal guidelines that limit what companies in various industries, banking for example, can spend on individual clients." ....
for the complete story
Creating experiences that pay off
Brands, agencies seek to make memories and make the deal with beefed-up hospitality programs
By JON SHOW
June 23, 2008
"Corporate hospitality at sporting events started out as a way to entertain clients with a ticket and a hot dog. It has developed into an industry with sophisticated methods to determine return on investment and a focus on providing a first-class experience." ...
"The exact size of the corporate sports hospitality industry is unknown, but industry executives estimate the size between $1 billion and $2 billion annually, depending on the timing of high-value, quadrennial events such as the Summer Olympics and FIFA World Cup.
Brands and agency executives point to two areas that have shaped changes to corporate hospitality in recent years: more of a focus on ROI and providing high-quality, unique client experiences.
Proving ROI was a natural outgrowth from existing legal guidelines that limit what companies in various industries, banking for example, can spend on individual clients." ....
for the complete story
Chicago's top cultural institutions -- Shedd Aquarium tops the list
Crain's Chicago Business released a list this morning of the top cultural institutions of the city. Information for each institution includes: attendance and % change; operating budget and % change; percentage of budget for administration and % change; number of full-time employees.
You can pay for a download of the data as a PDF or Excel or email Ruth for the html.
You can pay for a download of the data as a PDF or Excel or email Ruth for the html.
New Indian casino particulars (Duluth)
from yesterday's Duluth News Tribune (6/22):
Black Bear Casino unveiled
Duluth News Tribune
Published Sunday, June 22, 2008
"Overview: The final cost of the project is about $119 million, $2 million under budget. The 88,000-square-foot casino features about 2,000 slot machines, 16 blackjack tables, four poker tables, a 600-seat bingo hall and a high-stakes gambling area. Construction began in May 2006 and will be completed in August, when the Otter Creek Event Center opens. The casino also has a four-level parking ramp, golf course, arcade and retail shops.
The 17,650-square-foot convention center will host events for up to 1,800 people." ....
for the complete story
Black Bear Casino unveiled
Duluth News Tribune
Published Sunday, June 22, 2008
"Overview: The final cost of the project is about $119 million, $2 million under budget. The 88,000-square-foot casino features about 2,000 slot machines, 16 blackjack tables, four poker tables, a 600-seat bingo hall and a high-stakes gambling area. Construction began in May 2006 and will be completed in August, when the Otter Creek Event Center opens. The casino also has a four-level parking ramp, golf course, arcade and retail shops.
The 17,650-square-foot convention center will host events for up to 1,800 people." ....
for the complete story
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
$1.5b casino for Philippines?
from today's Hotels news announcements (6/17):
Packer in talks to build $1US.5b casino resort in the Philippines
Neil Gough -- South China Morning Post, June 16, 2008 Monday
"James Packer, the Australian gaming and media magnate whose joint venture with Lawrence Ho Yau-lung is investing billions of dollars in Macau, is in advanced talks to build a $1US.5 billion casino resort in the Philippines.
Mr Packer has emerged as the previously undisclosed owner of Bloombury Investments, a British Virgin Islands firm that is one of four private developers recently tipped by state-owned Philippine Amusement & Gaming Corp (Pagcor) to receive a gaming licence for a cluster of Las Vegas-style mega resorts at Manila Bay, according to Pagcor president and chief operating officer Rafael Butch Francisco.
Bloomsbury has already submitted a $100US million deposit towards plans to develop a 1,700-room resort and convention centre complex that may include a 1,000-room hotel tower bearing Mr Packer's flagship Crown brand......"
for the complete story
Packer in talks to build $1US.5b casino resort in the Philippines
Neil Gough -- South China Morning Post, June 16, 2008 Monday
"James Packer, the Australian gaming and media magnate whose joint venture with Lawrence Ho Yau-lung is investing billions of dollars in Macau, is in advanced talks to build a $1US.5 billion casino resort in the Philippines.
Mr Packer has emerged as the previously undisclosed owner of Bloombury Investments, a British Virgin Islands firm that is one of four private developers recently tipped by state-owned Philippine Amusement & Gaming Corp (Pagcor) to receive a gaming licence for a cluster of Las Vegas-style mega resorts at Manila Bay, according to Pagcor president and chief operating officer Rafael Butch Francisco.
Bloomsbury has already submitted a $100US million deposit towards plans to develop a 1,700-room resort and convention centre complex that may include a 1,000-room hotel tower bearing Mr Packer's flagship Crown brand......"
for the complete story
AH&LA lodging survey 2008
Press Release from the American Hotel and Lodging Association (6/16):
2008 AH&LA LODGING SURVEY STATISTICS SUPPORT NEW HOTEL TRENDS
Survey of More Than 10,000 U.S. Properties Unveils Trends in Technology, Health- and Eco-Conscious Travel
"Washington, June 16, 2006 – The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) releases its 2008 Lodging Survey, one of the most comprehensive industry-wide surveys of its kind, revealing notable trends in all segments of U.S. hotels. Funded by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Foundation (AH&LEF) and conducted by Smith Travel Research, the research analyzes feedback from more than 10,000 U.S. hotel properties polled in more than 100 areas of hotels, including types of in-room amenities, security and technology features, food and beverage options, number of beds, guest services, and property offerings. Additionally, this year’s survey included green initiative analysis for the first time.
Among the many major findings, the survey revealed the following:
New technologies are becoming more common:
Wireless Internet access is represented in 91 percent of responding properties, up 35 percent from just four years earlier;
The number of hotels that charge for in-room Internet use is on the decline. Sixteen percent of hotels charge for this service, down from 19 percent in 2006 and 22 percent in 2004;
35 percent of respondents offer iPod docking stations in-room; Upper upscale (76 percent) and luxury hotels (58 percent) are the most likely to offer this new amenity.
Hotels are getting healthier:
Seventy-nine percent of responding properties have an exercise room and/or fitness facility, and 77 percent of these are complimentary for guests;
The number of respondents who offer vegetarian menu options rose 16 percentage points to 48 percent. The number of hotels offering ‘healthy menu’ options also rose 15 points to 66 percent;
Twenty-four percent of respondents offer allergy-free hotel rooms.
Properties are shading operations with a greener hue:
Sixty-eight percent of properties report using energy-efficient lighting;
Twenty-one percent of respondents are planning to incorporate Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) standards into their properties in the next 12 months; Twenty percent note they have already incorporated LEED elements during the past 12 months." ...
“We are thrilled that this study has been recognized as one of the most comprehensive analyses of the total domestic lodging industry, and has been since the Educational Foundation began its funding in 1998,” said Joori Jeon, CPA, CAE, AH&LEF president/COO. “To date, AH&LEF's research program has funded more than $2.4 million in like research studies to benefit the industry.” ..........
for the complete press release -- only members can access the report but individual segments may be purchased.
2008 AH&LA LODGING SURVEY STATISTICS SUPPORT NEW HOTEL TRENDS
Survey of More Than 10,000 U.S. Properties Unveils Trends in Technology, Health- and Eco-Conscious Travel
"Washington, June 16, 2006 – The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) releases its 2008 Lodging Survey, one of the most comprehensive industry-wide surveys of its kind, revealing notable trends in all segments of U.S. hotels. Funded by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Foundation (AH&LEF) and conducted by Smith Travel Research, the research analyzes feedback from more than 10,000 U.S. hotel properties polled in more than 100 areas of hotels, including types of in-room amenities, security and technology features, food and beverage options, number of beds, guest services, and property offerings. Additionally, this year’s survey included green initiative analysis for the first time.
Among the many major findings, the survey revealed the following:
New technologies are becoming more common:
Wireless Internet access is represented in 91 percent of responding properties, up 35 percent from just four years earlier;
The number of hotels that charge for in-room Internet use is on the decline. Sixteen percent of hotels charge for this service, down from 19 percent in 2006 and 22 percent in 2004;
35 percent of respondents offer iPod docking stations in-room; Upper upscale (76 percent) and luxury hotels (58 percent) are the most likely to offer this new amenity.
Hotels are getting healthier:
Seventy-nine percent of responding properties have an exercise room and/or fitness facility, and 77 percent of these are complimentary for guests;
The number of respondents who offer vegetarian menu options rose 16 percentage points to 48 percent. The number of hotels offering ‘healthy menu’ options also rose 15 points to 66 percent;
Twenty-four percent of respondents offer allergy-free hotel rooms.
Properties are shading operations with a greener hue:
Sixty-eight percent of properties report using energy-efficient lighting;
Twenty-one percent of respondents are planning to incorporate Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) standards into their properties in the next 12 months; Twenty percent note they have already incorporated LEED elements during the past 12 months." ...
“We are thrilled that this study has been recognized as one of the most comprehensive analyses of the total domestic lodging industry, and has been since the Educational Foundation began its funding in 1998,” said Joori Jeon, CPA, CAE, AH&LEF president/COO. “To date, AH&LEF's research program has funded more than $2.4 million in like research studies to benefit the industry.” ..........
for the complete press release -- only members can access the report but individual segments may be purchased.
Philadelphia Convention Center drives development
from this morning's GlobeSt (6/17):
Last updated: June 16, 2008 03:06pm
Expanded Convention Center Drives Development
By Brianne Harrison
"PHILADELPHIA-The Pennsylvania Convention Center has long been an economic driver for Center City Philadelphia, drawing more than one million visitors a year to the area. Now that the convention center is being expanded, its economic impact on the city could be huge." ...
"Once the expansion is complete, the convention center will boast the largest contiguous exhibit space in the northeast, at 541,000 sf as well as the largest convention center ballroom on the east coast, at 60,000 sf. Total exhibit hall space will be raised from its current 440,000 sf to 700,000 sf. The $700 million project is scheduled for completion in 2010.
With so many more people coming to the convention center, hotel growth in the area is set to boom. "This will stimulate hotel growth, because we have to have it," Ferguson tells GlobeSt.com. "We see somewhere in the neighborhood of 2,200 to 2,500 new hotel rooms coming to Center City Philadelphia, particularly focused near the convention center." According to Ferguson, 533 rooms are currently being converted from former office space in the area and are expected to open in 2009, just ahead of the convention center’s reopening. In addition, a 55,000-sf site at the corner of Broad and Race Streets is being considered for an 800- to 900-room hotel."
for the complete story
Last updated: June 16, 2008 03:06pm
Expanded Convention Center Drives Development
By Brianne Harrison
"PHILADELPHIA-The Pennsylvania Convention Center has long been an economic driver for Center City Philadelphia, drawing more than one million visitors a year to the area. Now that the convention center is being expanded, its economic impact on the city could be huge." ...
"Once the expansion is complete, the convention center will boast the largest contiguous exhibit space in the northeast, at 541,000 sf as well as the largest convention center ballroom on the east coast, at 60,000 sf. Total exhibit hall space will be raised from its current 440,000 sf to 700,000 sf. The $700 million project is scheduled for completion in 2010.
With so many more people coming to the convention center, hotel growth in the area is set to boom. "This will stimulate hotel growth, because we have to have it," Ferguson tells GlobeSt.com. "We see somewhere in the neighborhood of 2,200 to 2,500 new hotel rooms coming to Center City Philadelphia, particularly focused near the convention center." According to Ferguson, 533 rooms are currently being converted from former office space in the area and are expected to open in 2009, just ahead of the convention center’s reopening. In addition, a 55,000-sf site at the corner of Broad and Race Streets is being considered for an 800- to 900-room hotel."
for the complete story
Smart Growth -- NJ discusses Arlington, VA
from this morning's GlobeSt. 96/17):
Last updated: June 17, 2008 12:14pm
Experts Urge State to Pursue Smart Growth
By Brianne Harrison
"NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ-Panelists and speakers at PlanSmart New Jersey’s Smart Growth Economy Project Conference agreed that smart growth is the way of the future and is the best method of producing socially, economically and environmentally healthy communities. New Jersey, with its dense population and strong rail lines, could become a smart growth leader if the state puts its mind to it." ....
"To illustrate his point, Anderson contrasted the smart growth area of Arlington, VA with the growth patterns that have become typical in many areas in recent years. Arlington features high-density development surrounding metro stations, with some low-density development nearby to provide housing choices. Most towns in the US have developed with sprawl patterns—shopping in a separate area off of a major road, with housing cut off from retail. This arrangement forced people into cars, resulting in more pollution, traffic and obesity due to a decline in daily exercise." ...
for the complete story
Smart growth envisions mixed-use environments with a variety of transportation modes, including public transport, bike trails and sidewalks. Demand for this type of community is strong, according to Anderson, research shows that one-third of people want smart growth, and that demand for detached homes on large lots has dropped while demand for attached or small homes on small lots has risen to exceed supply.
Such communities tend to have healthier residents with more disposable income, and they are more environmentally friendly. Densely developed areas tend to be much more efficient than suburbs when it comes to CO2 emissions, according to Anderson, and people who live in walkable communities are 7% less likely to be obese. Those who live near public transportation also spend less overall on transport, giving them more disposable income. High-density development can be a boon for the tax base as well: Anderson explained that Arlington hosts 30-million sf of development on only two square miles of land, and that 33% of the area’s tax revenue comes from only 7.6% of its land.
Last updated: June 17, 2008 12:14pm
Experts Urge State to Pursue Smart Growth
By Brianne Harrison
"NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ-Panelists and speakers at PlanSmart New Jersey’s Smart Growth Economy Project Conference agreed that smart growth is the way of the future and is the best method of producing socially, economically and environmentally healthy communities. New Jersey, with its dense population and strong rail lines, could become a smart growth leader if the state puts its mind to it." ....
"To illustrate his point, Anderson contrasted the smart growth area of Arlington, VA with the growth patterns that have become typical in many areas in recent years. Arlington features high-density development surrounding metro stations, with some low-density development nearby to provide housing choices. Most towns in the US have developed with sprawl patterns—shopping in a separate area off of a major road, with housing cut off from retail. This arrangement forced people into cars, resulting in more pollution, traffic and obesity due to a decline in daily exercise." ...
for the complete story
Smart growth envisions mixed-use environments with a variety of transportation modes, including public transport, bike trails and sidewalks. Demand for this type of community is strong, according to Anderson, research shows that one-third of people want smart growth, and that demand for detached homes on large lots has dropped while demand for attached or small homes on small lots has risen to exceed supply.
Such communities tend to have healthier residents with more disposable income, and they are more environmentally friendly. Densely developed areas tend to be much more efficient than suburbs when it comes to CO2 emissions, according to Anderson, and people who live in walkable communities are 7% less likely to be obese. Those who live near public transportation also spend less overall on transport, giving them more disposable income. High-density development can be a boon for the tax base as well: Anderson explained that Arlington hosts 30-million sf of development on only two square miles of land, and that 33% of the area’s tax revenue comes from only 7.6% of its land.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Thursday, June 5, 2008
retail and real estate news
Shopping Centers Today (May): NY’s American Museum of Natural History partnering to open exhibits in malls; Wal-Mart Mexico goes green; Merlin bringing small Legolands to malls; Village Roadshow cinemas and luxury movies at malls; luxury retail in Europe; Simon Property Group and the Mills Corp an update; luxury branded retail moving into Latin America—part of a series on articles on various types of retail in Latin America; space reuse exhibit; medical center moves into Minneapolis mall; Puerto Rico’s retail growing; USGBC and LEED for retail; retail and the Calgary Stampede
Value Retail News (May): Canadian outlet industry; U.S. outlet centers report pt.2; Houston Premium Outlets; Tanger Center expansion at Gonzales, LA; Disney taking back its retail stores; greening centers
Retail Traffic (April): considering new tenant types for vacant mall space; luxury retail; Gulf States recovery report
National Real Estate Investor (April): Salt Lake City proposed mixed-use City Creek Center project; Bronx development boom
Shopping Center Business (April): Forest City projects plans
Shopping Center Business (May): Chicago’s mixed-use landscape; Forest City lifestyle development Temecula Promenade; Raleigh Triangle gets major lifestyle development; Crate and Barrel new branding; Regency Centers pushing green; Royal Hawaiian going luxury; Merlin Entertainments bringing new leisure centers to malls; Meadowlands Xanadu; small format mixed use; mixed use in India and China; mixed use Anaheim GardenWalk; mixed use trends; Tucson The Bridges; retail and food sales – farmers markets, grocers, etc; Americana Glendale; NIMBY opposition continues; urban lifestyle legal issues
Retail Traffic (May): Simon and the Mills; France primed for retail expansion; mixed use development delays; colleges moving into retail spaces; subprime looks at retail in Detroit, Las Vegas, and Stockton
Value Retail News (May): Canadian outlet industry; U.S. outlet centers report pt.2; Houston Premium Outlets; Tanger Center expansion at Gonzales, LA; Disney taking back its retail stores; greening centers
Retail Traffic (April): considering new tenant types for vacant mall space; luxury retail; Gulf States recovery report
National Real Estate Investor (April): Salt Lake City proposed mixed-use City Creek Center project; Bronx development boom
Shopping Center Business (April): Forest City projects plans
Shopping Center Business (May): Chicago’s mixed-use landscape; Forest City lifestyle development Temecula Promenade; Raleigh Triangle gets major lifestyle development; Crate and Barrel new branding; Regency Centers pushing green; Royal Hawaiian going luxury; Merlin Entertainments bringing new leisure centers to malls; Meadowlands Xanadu; small format mixed use; mixed use in India and China; mixed use Anaheim GardenWalk; mixed use trends; Tucson The Bridges; retail and food sales – farmers markets, grocers, etc; Americana Glendale; NIMBY opposition continues; urban lifestyle legal issues
Retail Traffic (May): Simon and the Mills; France primed for retail expansion; mixed use development delays; colleges moving into retail spaces; subprime looks at retail in Detroit, Las Vegas, and Stockton
venue and meeting/tradeshow news
M&C (May): cities using sports venues to lure meeting business; Gaylord corp bio and plans; cruise industry; virtual meetings; destination guides on: Northern CA, Boston, Montreal, and Spain
Tradeshow Week “Going Green” special insert issue (4/21)
M&C (April): day meeting spaces; mega spa resorts; Middle Eastern, gulf-area hotel development; destination guides on AZ, Dallas/Ft Worth, San Antonio, Atlantic City, and CA
M&C “Global Planner” special insert issue (April): includes international planner survey for 2008
Tradeshow Week (4/7): Las Vegas Sands’ expansion gets county approval; international exhibition companies see earnings rise; China tradeshow industry up
Venues Today (May): China venues; corporate sponsorships of US and Australian festivals
Tradeshow Week (5/12): NY expansion to Pier 94; Morial convention center rebranding; Phoenix Convention center going solar; Q1 earnings down for Boyd, Gaylord, and Sands; city review of Las Vegas
Tradeshow Week “Going Green” special insert issue (4/21)
M&C (April): day meeting spaces; mega spa resorts; Middle Eastern, gulf-area hotel development; destination guides on AZ, Dallas/Ft Worth, San Antonio, Atlantic City, and CA
M&C “Global Planner” special insert issue (April): includes international planner survey for 2008
Tradeshow Week (4/7): Las Vegas Sands’ expansion gets county approval; international exhibition companies see earnings rise; China tradeshow industry up
Venues Today (May): China venues; corporate sponsorships of US and Australian festivals
Tradeshow Week (5/12): NY expansion to Pier 94; Morial convention center rebranding; Phoenix Convention center going solar; Q1 earnings down for Boyd, Gaylord, and Sands; city review of Las Vegas
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
local, regional, and state news
New Orleans City Business (5/5): multi-body collaboration for focused economic development announced
New Orleans City Business Journal (5/12): French Quarter parking meters for rent; Jazz Fest vendor sales report; housing costs for green homes
Los Angeles Business Journal (5/12): L.A. stadium-retail plans; home sales up, prices down; Newhall land development in trouble
Crain’s Chicago Business (5/12): big box and other retail gaps on Miracle Mile
San Diego Business Journal (5/12): Navy Broadway Project over another hurdle; Lindbergh Field improvement plans approved; list of the biggest construction projects in the area
California Real Estate Journal (5/19): large hotel proposed for Petco Park (San Diego); green buildings in demand for investors; special section on retail (including: Westfield, redevelopment, mixed use, Caruso Americana in Pasadena, big box changes, home improvement segment, etc.)
Indian Country Today (5/7); Gun Lake Tribe (MI) wins court battle for casino development rights
California Real Estate Journal (5/5): state hotel outlook; Victor Valley loses corridor funding; SF Exploratorium move; Dodgers announce stadium improvements; TOD
Los Angeles Business Journal (5/5): Americana mall (Glendale) opening changes other area retail; Santa Monica Pier’s new wheel; lawyer writes on offsetting green construction costs
Orange County Business Journal (5/5): feature section on tourism
San Fernando Valley Business Journal (5/12): Americana mall’s problems with housing and parking (Glendale)
San Diego Business Journal (5/26): San Diego Civic Center development finalists; special feature on business travel/commuting and sustainability concerns
Crain’s Chicago Business (5/5): Cub’s sale planned for August
San Fernando Valley Business Journal (5/26): Santa Clarita wins state award for best economic development plan
Crain’s Chicago Business (5/19): Mike Ditka in branding deal for FL condo-hotel resorts
San Diego Business Journal (5/19): CVB predicting lower than usual rise in hotel room rates
New Orleans City Business Journal (5/12): French Quarter parking meters for rent; Jazz Fest vendor sales report; housing costs for green homes
Los Angeles Business Journal (5/12): L.A. stadium-retail plans; home sales up, prices down; Newhall land development in trouble
Crain’s Chicago Business (5/12): big box and other retail gaps on Miracle Mile
San Diego Business Journal (5/12): Navy Broadway Project over another hurdle; Lindbergh Field improvement plans approved; list of the biggest construction projects in the area
California Real Estate Journal (5/19): large hotel proposed for Petco Park (San Diego); green buildings in demand for investors; special section on retail (including: Westfield, redevelopment, mixed use, Caruso Americana in Pasadena, big box changes, home improvement segment, etc.)
Indian Country Today (5/7); Gun Lake Tribe (MI) wins court battle for casino development rights
California Real Estate Journal (5/5): state hotel outlook; Victor Valley loses corridor funding; SF Exploratorium move; Dodgers announce stadium improvements; TOD
Los Angeles Business Journal (5/5): Americana mall (Glendale) opening changes other area retail; Santa Monica Pier’s new wheel; lawyer writes on offsetting green construction costs
Orange County Business Journal (5/5): feature section on tourism
San Fernando Valley Business Journal (5/12): Americana mall’s problems with housing and parking (Glendale)
San Diego Business Journal (5/26): San Diego Civic Center development finalists; special feature on business travel/commuting and sustainability concerns
Crain’s Chicago Business (5/5): Cub’s sale planned for August
San Fernando Valley Business Journal (5/26): Santa Clarita wins state award for best economic development plan
Crain’s Chicago Business (5/19): Mike Ditka in branding deal for FL condo-hotel resorts
San Diego Business Journal (5/19): CVB predicting lower than usual rise in hotel room rates
general business news
Forbes (5/5): Atlanta Braves feature
Fortune (5/12): ethanol and biofuels
Business Week (5/26): golf growing
Economist (5/17): Asian tourism
Fortune (5/12): ethanol and biofuels
Business Week (5/26): golf growing
Economist (5/17): Asian tourism
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