EconNews

University of Iowa housing crisis

2011-08-30T09:32:00.000-07:00

from the Press-Citizen (8/25):

UI trying to find rooms for all of its students
by Emily Schettler

"The fourth-floor lounge of Slater Residence Hall wasn't what 18-year-old Kathryn Propstein had in mind when she imagined her first dorm room at the University of Iowa, but that's where she's spent her first week, along with six other roommates.

The women are among 120 students living in temporary housing while UI officials work to identify open beds. For now, Propstein and her roommates are waiting; waiting for other students to transfer or move off campus and the rooms those students occupied to open up." ...

for the complete story

Vernon again

2011-08-30T09:21:00.000-07:00

from this morning's L.A. Times (8/30):

In rebuff to Pérez, Senate rejects disbanding Vernon
By Sam Allen, Los Angeles Times
August 29, 2011, 9:57 p.m.

"For months, Assembly Speaker John Pérez tried to make the case that corruption and secrecy were so deeply rooted in the city of Vernon that the only solution was to disband its municipal government, a first in modern California history.

But a coalition of labor leaders and business owners feared a loss of jobs. Other municipalities worried that disincorporation would set a dangerous precedent. And Los Angeles County supervisors balked at inheriting Vernon's financial problems." ...

for the complete story

FL to get more intermodal/carrier transti center

2011-08-25T15:17:00.000-07:00

from the Sun Sentinel (Broward Co) (8/23):

Broward leases 42 acres at port to FEC
Deal at Port Everglades expected to expand business
August 23, 2011|By Brittany Wallman, Sun Sentinel

"A "milestone" agreement to lease public land at Broward's seaport to a private railroad company won approval Tuesday at the County Commission, cementing a deal that's been years in the making.

Broward elected officials and business leaders, as well as Port Everglades and Florida East Coast railway officials, said the compact for what they call an "Intermodal Container Transfer Facility" will bring much-desired jobs and expansion of commerce in an ailing economy." ...

for the complete story

MN biodiesel coming back

2011-08-25T15:11:00.000-07:00

from the Star Tribune (Minneapolis) (8/24):

Biodeisel Plants back from the Brink
Article by: David Shaffer, Star Tribune
Updated: August 24, 2011 - 7:45 AM

"GLENVILLE, MINN. - For more than three
years, the SoyMor biodiesel plant sat idle --
victim of a slump that took down more than
a quarter of the plants in the industry.

But biodiesel is booming again, and a sign of
the revival happened last week in this small
southern Minnesota town. Workers started
up the plant on Wednesday, and soon the
fuel was flowing." ...

for the complete story

India's luxury market struggling despite rising riches

2011-08-25T15:03:00.000-07:00

from Reuters (8/24):

Insight: Luxury retail not part of India's success story
Wed, Aug 24 2011
By Jui Chakravorty

"MUMBAI (Reuters) - When Nita Ambani went shopping for 25,000 pieces of high-end Japanese crockery, she did not go to the Noritake store in her posh neighborhood of southern Mumbai.

Instead, the wife of the richest man in India called a Noritake store in Sri Lanka, where the upscale dinnerware for her new $1 billion home would be far cheaper.

Ambani's decision illustrates why India's growing number of wealthy consumers has not translated into riches for luxury retailers such as LVMH or Prada despite what, on the face of it, looks like a no-brainer." ...

for the complete story

Walnut Creek climate action plan announced

2011-08-25T14:59:00.000-07:00

from the Contra Costa Times (8/24):

Walnut Creek plans to cut greenhouse gas emissions
By Elisabeth Nardi
Posted: 08/24/2011 02:32:08 PM PDT

"The public is invited to scrutinize a new draft plan that aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions in 2020 by 15 percent.

The draft Climate Action Plan outlines the city's strategies for reducing such emissions -- think everything from solar panels on city hall to panels on your roof." ...

for the complete story

India's mall becoming more than retail

2011-08-25T14:55:00.000-07:00

from the Jakarta Post (8/22):

Malls turn social with more public spaces
Novia D. Rulistia, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta | Mon, 08/22/2011 7:00 AM

"Life is more and more centered around shopping malls for Jakarta citizens now that libraries have turned to malls, following art galleries, playgrounds and even cultural centers that have existed there.

Jakartans now visit malls to also engage in their favorite activities: reading, watching gigs, attending discussions, or enjoying artwork." ...

for the complete story

WA tourism office closure

2011-08-25T14:52:00.000-07:00

New York Times (7/11):

A Tourism Office Falls Victim to Hard Times
By WILLIAM YARDLEY

"SEATTLE — An alluring billboard beckoned to motorists on a busy industrial corridor here this spring. It displayed just one image, a panoramic view of a valley and mountains and sunshine, and one word, “Montana.”

Who paid for that advertisement? The State of Montana, naturally, out of money it designated for tourism marketing this year.

“They’ve done a great job, and they’re incredibly visible,” said Tom Norwalk, the president and chief executive of Seattle’s Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We’re not doing that. We’re going to be fortunate in the next six months to be able to maintain a Web site.” " ...

"This month, as a result of wide-ranging budget cuts passed this year by the Democratic-controlled Legislature, Washington became the only state in the nation with no statewide tourism office and no state money to promote itself to travelers.

The cut has been attributed purely to having to make tough choices between financing programs like public education and paying for glossy marketing
campaigns." ...

"“Our lesson to Washington is that it’s been 18 years since we went dark in 1993, and we still haven’t gotten back to the national market share we had,” said Al White, head of the Colorado Tourism Office, which lost all financing in 1993 and did not regain a steady revenue stream until 2000." ...

for the complete story

Anaheim convention center expanding

2011-08-25T14:41:00.000-07:00

from today's San Francisco Chronicle (8/25):

Anaheim Convention Center Plans Expansion
Anaheim, CA (PRWEB) August 25, 2011

"The Anaheim Convention Center is expanding its outdoor and special event space by 100,000 square feet. The new multi-use venue area called the Anaheim Convention Center GRAND PLAZA has been strategically planned to provide meeting and event planners and attendees with plenty of open and multi-functional outdoor space that can be used year-round.

Development of the Anaheim Convention Center Grand Plaza begins in the spring of 2012 and concludes by the end of the year. This vibrant pedestrian plaza will feature: lush landscaping, expansive walkways, interesting hardscape designs, dramatic water features and fountains, ample seating areas, special lighting, and infrastructure necessary to support a multitude of special events." ...

for the complete

Business travel costs rising

2011-08-25T14:37:00.000-07:00

from today's Meetings Focus (8/25):

AMEX Study Shows Rising Biz Travel Costs
NEW YORK

"American Express Global Business Travel released business travel pricing trends for the second quarter of 2011 from its eXpert insights Business Travel Monitor (BTM), its long-term price trending index for domestic and international trips originating in North America. The BTM data demonstrates continued rate increases for flights and accommodations as suppliers continue to take advantage of the return in demand and other market factors to raise rates.

According to the BTM data. the average domestic one-way airfare increased by 8 percent to $260 in Q2 2011 over the same period the year before, while average international one-way fare increased by 9 percent to $1,970. Average hotel rates in Q2 2011 increased by 3 percent to $156 over the same period in 2010, while international hotels increased by 11 percent to $258."

for the complete story

Intercontinental, luxury shopping to promote tourism

2011-08-25T14:32:00.000-07:00

from the Retail Gazette (8/23):

London and Japan agree luxury retail partnership
10:02AM - Tue 23rd August 2011
By Gemma Taylor -

"The London Luxury Quarter, which incorporates over 300 luxury brands based in London’s West End, yesterday announced its partnership with the growing Marunouchi luxury district in Tokyo.

The New West End Company proposition was developed to target the affluent consumers that shop in the area. It is hoped that the pairing will capitalise on the £117 million spent by Japanese tourists annually and increase the number of international visitors to the area." ...

for the complete story

Museum tech

2011-08-25T14:27:00.000-07:00

from Techradar.com (8/22):

Video: How museums will look in the future
TechRadar goes hands on with next-generation exhibits
By Gareth Beavis
Monday at 13:44 BST

"Near Field Communications, or NFC as it's more commonly known, is a technology few know that much about.

You might have used it to travel in London using an Oyster Card or have a smart pass at work that lets you into the building, but despite increasing numbers of phones packing NFC technology, not many people really know what it's for.

Thankfully, TechRadar has found a real life application at the Museum of London, where NFC tags have been deployed in partnership with Nokia to offer visitors insights and info on exhibits, quick access to social networking and NFC-only offers for the gift shop." ...

for the complete story

Mega cities and water infrastructure

2011-08-25T14:22:00.000-07:00

from IPS (8/23):

Mega Cities Could Trigger Water Shortages and Social Unrest
By Thalif Deen

"STOCKHOLM, Aug 23, 2011 (IPS) - The rapid growth of urban population - described as one of the world’s major demographic trends - has triggered an explosion of "mega cities" in Asia, Latin America and Africa, causing a breakdown in basic services, including water supplies and sanitation facilities.

And by 2050, about 70 percent of the world’s population will live in urban areas causing horrendous problems, predicts a new 80-page study released here by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF)." ...

"he study focuses on six of the world’s "exploding mega cities": Mexico City, Mexico, with a population of 21.1 million; Buenos Aires, Argentina, with a population of 12.8 million; Kolkata, India, with a population of 15.4 million; Karachi, Pakistan, with a population of 18 million; Nairobi, Kenya, with a population of 3.5 million; and Shanghai, China, with a population of 23 million."...

for the complete story; for the WWF report either contact Ruth or follow the link in the press release from WWF Germany for Big Cities, Big Water, Big Challenges

Zoo markets

2011-08-25T14:05:00.000-07:00

PGAV Destinations has released a brief report called Releasing Wild Success which discusses survey results on the demographics of zoo attendance.

The link above takes you to their public releases page which includes other articles on various tourism sectors as well as the zoo piece.

NOLA Audubon Building to become hotel

2011-08-18T11:30:00.000-07:00

From the Times Picayune (8/17):

Former Audubon Building is being redeveloped as a New Orleans hotel
Published: Wednesday, August 17, 2011, 5:14 PM Updated: Thursday, August 18, 2011, 12:03 PM
By Jaquetta White

"He hadn't intended to buy a hotel. In New Orleans only for a day as he and his family waited out bad weather before resuming their trip home to Dallas from Florida, David Mark Wyant had only planned to take a stroll down Canal Street.

But as he passed a venerable but derelict building at the corner of Burgundy Street and noted its for sale sign, the American Airlines pilot who has developed several chain hotels decided he had to call the seller, even as he assumed the building was out of his price range." ...

"The object of Wyant's acquisition was the century old Audubon Building that once housed professional offices and retail shops, but has lain empty for more than a decade.

Wyant plans to reopen it as The Saint Hotel in mid-December.

The Dallas developer puchased the building in foreclosure for $5.35 million in April 2010. He plans to give it new life after a one-and-a-half-year renovation costing more than $39 million." ...

for the complete story

LV Wheel in the news!

2011-08-18T11:23:00.000-07:00

from yesterday's USA Today (8/17)

Las Vegas plans to top London Eye with massive Ferris wheel
By Barbara Delollis

"LAS VEGAS – Las Vegas is set to get a bigger American-style version of one of London's popular tourist attractions, the London Eye.

Next month, Caesars Entertainment plans to start digging to lay the foundation for a 550-foot-tall observation wheel behind the company's Imperial Palace and Flamingo hotels that it expects to open toward the end of 2013." ...

for the complete story

CA hotel occupancy on the rise

2011-08-18T11:19:00.000-07:00

from today's L.A. Times (8/18):

Hotel industry recovers as travelers fill rooms
By Roger Vincent
August 18, 2011

"Occupancy is rising this year following a drought of business and leisure guests amid the recession. Hoteliers have reduced discounting but largely have resisted raising room prices." ....

"Hundreds of California hotels did go into financial default, but the tide turned this year as travelers ventured forth again, industry analysts said. Terranea alone expects to have more than 740,000 paying hotel and restaurant guests this year, a 22% increase over 2010." ....

for the complete story

CA high-speed rail under attack

2011-08-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

from today's Sacramento Bee (8/18):

Jerry Brown backs going forward with high-speed rail project
By David Siders
Published: Thursday, Aug. 18, 2011 - 12:00 am | Page 3A

"FRESNO – Gov. Jerry Brown said Wednesday that California should press forward with its troubled high-speed rail project, despite growing criticism about the project's management and cost." ...

for the complete story

Green roofs cropping up all over Indy

2011-08-18T10:51:00.000-07:00

from the Indiana Star (8/12)

Gardens are growing on green roofs around town
by Brab Berggoetz 5:17 AM, Aug. 12, 2011

"All around the area are signs that Indianapolis is embracing the idea of creating a green community." ...

"The Nature Conservancy's new building boasts native plants and grasses and a unique system that preserves rainwater for flushing toilets and watering landscaping." ...

"The Children's Museum is using a new "green" area outside its second-floor atrium and a rain garden as a way to become more sustainable and to educate visitors.

What makes these green initiatives new? They are doing it all on the rooftops, creating "green roofs" that essentially grow plants -- grasses, shrubs, trees, even vegetables, on the roof." ...

for the complete story

UConn creates economic development VP

2011-08-18T10:09:00.000-07:00

from the Hartford Courant (8/16):

UConn President Establishes Vice Presidency For Economic Development
Herbst Says New Post Is One Of Her Highest Priorities

August 16, 2011|By KATHLEEN MEGAN

"UConn's new president, Susan Herbst, is so concerned about the state's economic development — and the university's contribution to it — that she is establishing a new university vice president position.

Herbst embarked on the search for a vice president for economic development earlier this month and hopes to have the job filled by mid-September." ...

"The new vice president will "work with all kinds of industries and disciplines to create jobs and fuel the economy," Herbst said, "but also will help faculty take their inventions to market and form companies. … This is meant to signal that we are far more serious about trying to create jobs and boost the economy." " ....

for the complete story

Stadium naming rights buyout in Denver

2011-08-18T10:03:00.000-07:00

from Venues Today (8/16):

Sports Authority Strikes Mile High Deal in Denver
The sporting goods store took over the remainder of Invesco’s contract for the Broncos' stadium
by Jessica Boudevin
Published: August 16, 2011

"Goodbye Invesco Field, hello Sports Authority Field at Mile High.

The sporting goods retailer has taken over the last nine years of Invesco’s naming rights contract with the Metropolitan Football Stadium District and the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. Signs could change as soon as Aug. 17." ...

for the complete story and details of the deal

Healthcare buildings

2011-08-16T15:39:00.000-07:00

Architectural Record (8/2011) is offering a feature on healthcare buildings -- not in article form, but in a series of building profiles.

Gleneagles makeover

2011-08-16T15:37:00.000-07:00

from the Scotsman (8/3)

Golf: Gleneagles poised to splash £500k on sub-air system for all greens
Published Date: 03 August 2011
By Martin Dempster

"GLENEAGLES could be set to splash out £500,000 to install a revolutionary sub-air system in all the greens on the PGA Centenary Course ahead of the 2014 Ryder Cup." ...

for the complete story

LV CityCenter MGM to come down

2011-08-16T15:32:00.000-07:00

from today's Washington Post (8/16):

MGM Resorts seeks county OK to demolish defective Harmon hotel tower at CityCenter in Vegas
By Associated Press, Published: August 15

"LAS VEGAS — Casino company MGM Resorts International is seeking county approval to demolish the defective Harmon hotel tower on the Las Vegas Strip, concluding it’s not worth the time, money or effort to salvage the building and open.

Responding to calls from county officials in Sin City to come up with a plan, the Las Vegas company said Monday it now wants to implode the stylish blue oval cylinder because structural defects prevent it from being used. A structural engineer said in a report last month that the building wouldn’t hold up in a strong earthquake." ...

for the complete story

Healthcare real estate on the rise

2011-08-15T16:20:00.000-07:00

According to Western Real Estate Business (August issue), the "Healthcare Industry Pciks Up the Pace."

If you want to read the newsy, but not data-rich article, let Ruth know.

Museum/City Hall to get solar free

2011-08-15T15:56:00.000-07:00

from today's The Olympian (WA) (8/15):

Solar panels considered for museum, City Hall
MATT BATCHELDOR; Staff writer
Published: 08/15/1112:00 am | Updated: 08/15/1112:46 am

"OLYMPIA – Olympia’s new City Hall and under-construction Hands On Children’s Museum may get energy-saving solar panels.

The city is considering a proposal from Tangerine Power of Seattle to install the panels on the buildings at no cost to the city. The city would lease rooftop space to Tangerine for nine years for $1 per year, said Assistant City Manager Jay Burney. In turn, Tangerine would be responsible for installing and maintaining the systems, and get paid in state incentives." ...

for the complete story

Blythe airfield potential solar plant

2011-08-15T15:52:00.000-07:00

from today's Press Enterprise (8/15):

Solar plant wants abandoned WWII-era airfield near Blythe
10:00 PM PDT on Sunday, August 14, 2011
By DAVID DANELSKI

"A 2.2-square-mile solar energy project sought for an abandoned World War II-era airfield in eastern Riverside County is moving forward without the environmental controversy faced by other projects.

And that's just what developers, the Santa Monica-based SolarReserve company, had hoped for when selecting land for the Rice Solar Energy Project that is just south of Highway 62 about 40 miles northwest of Blythe.

By choosing disturbed lands, the company has so far avoided protests from environmentalists who want to protect desert tortoises and other wildlife, said Tom Georgis, a senior vice president of development for SolarReserve." ...

for the complete story

Canadian cultural institutions funding

2011-08-15T15:41:00.000-07:00

from today's Ottawa Citizen (8/15):

Wanted: Private money for public dreams
By Mohammed Adam, Ottawa Citizen

"Large-scale cultural projects in Toronto, Edmonton and Calgary couldn't have happened without strong support and hefty donations from individuals and corporations, according to some experts. So why can't Ottawa tap into a similar wellspring? Mohammed Adam explains.

In 2006, as the fundraising drive for a new concert hall began in earnest, Julian Armour had high hopes that a private donor would step forward with the $8 million his group needed to seal the deal.

He had seen several cities pull off such projects with the help of private donations, and he was fairly confident a corporate Good Samaritan would emerge to make the concert hall dream a reality." ...

for the complete story

Macau hotel casinos making bank

2011-08-15T15:36:00.000-07:00

from today's Hotel News Now (8/15):

Macau holds riches for casino-hotels
15 August 2011
By Shawn A. Turner

"MACAU— ... The Chinese region has been, and is expected to continue to be, a gold mine for the lucky few hotel-casinos that have been granted licenses to operate there.

Net revenue at the company’s Macau operations totaled US$976.51 million during the second quarter this year, a 36.7% increase over US$714.41 million a year earlier, according to a 9 August U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filing. By comparison, net revenue at Wynn’s Las Vegas operations totaled US$390.85 million during the quarter." ...

for the complete

Hotel beekeeping

2011-08-15T15:29:00.000-07:00

from today's Hotel News Now (8/15):

Hotels abuzz with onsite beekeeping
12 August 2011
By Patrick Mayock

"INTERNATIONAL REPORT—The realm of sustainable hotel operations is abuzz, and the sound isn’t merely metaphorical.

In one of the newest—and sweetest—trends in the “green” movement, hotel companies such as Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and Marriott International are engaging in on-site beekeeping, offering guests the honey as well as the experience of interacting with their hive-dwelling hotel residents." ...

for the complete story

Vernon in deeper soup

2011-08-15T15:03:00.000-07:00

from yesterday's L.A. Times (8/14):

Complex financial deals and energy projects cost Vernon millions

By Sam Allen and Hector Becerra
August 13, 2011, 7:16 p.m.

"In the last six years, the tiny industrial city has amassed nearly half a billion dollars of debt and lost more than $130 million through aggressive investments and energy projects that one expert called 'too risky.'" ...

"The city of Vernon has amassed nearly half a billion dollars of debt and suffered major losses over the last six years in an aggressive pursuit of investments through its electric utility, according to a Times analysis of the city's financial records.

"Even as the city's losses mounted, Vernon's leaders continued to push for more complex and grandiose projects. Officials bought a 15-year supply of natural gas at a fixed rate ..." ...

For the complete story

Yosemite visitors

2011-08-15T14:31:00.000-07:00

from today's L.A. Times (8/15):

A park full of peril
By Tony Barboza

"This summer's deaths at Yosemite National Park point out a conundrum: For many, the danger in nature is part of the appeal. Park officials say it's up to visitors to make the right decisions." ...

for the complete story

New to your Library

2011-08-12T14:59:00.000-07:00

Feel free to request some new items on the shelves --

Milken Institute's Best-Performing Cities, 2010
GuideStar's The 2010 Nonprofit Fundraising Survey
Brooking's Missed Opportunity: Transit and Jobs in Metropolitan America
NSGA's Sports Participation, 2010

Met sees surge in museum membership sales

2011-08-12T14:45:00.000-07:00

from yesterday's Wall Street Journal (8/11)

Memberships Spike at Met
McQueen Exhibit Brightens the Horizon.

By PIA CATTON

"The long lines for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's blockbuster exhibit "Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty" have gone away, but the lasting effect for the museum is the influx of new members. During the exhibit's run from May 4 to Aug. 7, some 25,000 memberships were purchased at prices between $70 and $550.

"In terms of enlarging the Met family, it's crucial," said the museum's spokesman, Harold Holzer. "Membership is a major source of revenue and repeat visitation."

Membership contributions make up about 10% of the institution's annual operating budget, and the support goes toward general programming plans, rather than any specific future exhibition. The McQueen bump is at least double the number that joined during the same period last year, and could help offset recession-era shifts in the museum's $2.3 billion endowment." ...

for the complete story

Feds fund Riverside Solar project

2011-08-12T14:39:00.000-07:00

from the Press Enterprise (8/10):

ENERGY: Feds approve huge Riverside County solar project

10:00 PM PDT on Wednesday, August 10, 2011
By BEN GOAD

"WASHINGTON - U. S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar on Wednesday approved an eastern Riverside County solar power project expected to create hundreds of local jobs, generate enough energy to power more than 165,000 homes and pump hundreds of millions of dollars into the region's struggling economy.

Covering over 4,100 acres east of Palm Springs, the project, under development by Arizona-based First Solar, would generate 550 megawatts of solar power." ...

for the full story

Niagara Falls tourism flat

2011-08-12T14:32:00.000-07:00

from yesterday's Niagara Falls Review (8/11)

Tourism 'flat' in Falls
By RAY SPITERI Niagara Falls Review

"It could be better. It could be worse.

But with the peak season of tourism upon us, the general consensus among operators is business has been "mediocre" and "flat," says Niagara Falls Tourism chairman Wayne Thomson." ...

"Thomson said Americans once made up about 65% of the visitors to Niagara Falls. He said it would be optimistic to think that figure is at 25% now." ...

for the complete story

Financing hotel projects with ground leases

2011-08-12T14:24:00.000-07:00

from today's Hotels online edition (8/12):

How to maximize ground leases to finance hotel projects
By Guest Contributor on 8/12/2011

"Although not without unique challenges, a long-term ground lease may be an appropriate structure for facilitating financing for some new hotel projects, especially in the current atmosphere of ongoing tight credit." ...

for the complete story

150k+ attendance at outlet center opening

2011-08-12T14:21:00.000-07:00

from today's Global Outlet News Brief (8/12):

161,000 attend Oklahoma outlet center opening

"OKLAHOMA CITY – Horizon Group Properties and CBL & Assocs. Properties were walking on air and doing virtual backflips – in 107 degree heat – at the grand opening of their joint-venture outlet center on Aug. 4.　

The next day and through the weekend, more than 161,000 visited the 100-percent leased center, and traffic into the center from Interstate 40 stretched for three miles. The biggest worry the developers had was that happy problem of too few parking spaces." ...

For a full article on the Center see the September issue of VRN.
For press news on the development see the developer's news zone

Korean solar firm comes to CA

2011-08-12T13:54:00.000-07:00

from today's Sacramento Bee (8/12):

Korean solar firm sets capital as U.S. base
Published: Friday, Aug. 12, 2011 - 12:00 am | Page 6B

"Sacramento became the U.S. headquarters Wednesday for a Korean solar energy company.

For starters, Global Solar Energy Corp.'s decision will bring 10 jobs to Sacramento." ...

for the complete story

Fed speaks on healthy community development

2011-08-03T10:02:00.001-07:00

For those of us interested in community development and/or the healthcare industry market -- the link below will take you to videos and presentations from "Healthy Communities: The Intersection of Community Development and Health," a 2011 conference hosted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, are available on the Boston Fed's web site:

Healthy Communities

While the initial series of presentations is from the health worker perspective (covering health care delivery and the existing positive impacts of modern development on community health, etc.) , the second half of the offerings are from planners, cities, and the like discussing our side of things ranging from TOD to incentivizing healthy development.

Brookings reports on the green economy

2011-07-29T14:28:00.000-07:00

The Brookings Institute has released the report companion to its July 13th conference on the event of and trends in the green economy. The full report is in the Library, but you can also check out videos of 2 panels and the welcome session of the conference at the Brookings conference page

CA wind turbine rebate program in trouble

2011-07-29T14:08:00.000-07:00

from today's Sacramento Bee (7/29):

Turbine maker accused of fraud
By Anne Gonzales
Published: Friday, Jul. 29, 2011 - 12:00 am | Page 6B

"The state's wind power rebate program is in a tailspin, after the California Energy Commission accused a turbine manufacturer of fraud this week.

The program for getting wind power rebates was suspended March 4 to allow the commission time to review a flurry of applications from DyoCore Inc. customers, who have already collected more than $515,000 in rebates.

Another 249 rebates for systems using DyoCore turbines were approved for almost $6.4 million, but not paid, and 1,069 rebate applications using DyoCore turbines, totaling more than $31 million, are pending review." ...

For the complete story

China hotel market bottomed in 2009, rising now

2011-07-29T10:24:00.000-07:00

from today's Hotels News (7/29):

China bottomed out in 2009: Horwath study
By Jeff Weinstein on 7/28/2011

"The 2011 China Hotel Industry Study created by Horwath HTL shows a revival in 2010 performance, especially in the major markets, after four years of declining performance levels. Primary markets such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen all recorded strong growth in RevPAR and GOP performance.

GOP levels increased for all star-rating categories with 5-star hotels recording a 28% increase in GOP at RMB 117,448 per available room (PAR); 4-star hotels recording a 27% increase in GOP at RMB 61,260 PAR; and 3-star hotels recording by far the largest increase of 52% and a GOP of RMB 35,950 PAR." ...

for the complete story

Are Science Museums suffering for being too childish?

2011-07-29T09:59:00.000-07:00

from the UK Museums Association news (7/20)

Are science collections headed for extinction?
Geraldine Kendall, 20.07.2011

"The future of science collections is up for debate at the Museums Association conference in Brighton this October.

In a session chaired by Ian Blatchford, director of the National Museum of Science and Industry (NMSI), a panel of experts will look at whether science and technology museums have lost sight of their collections.

The panel will argue that while art galleries and history museums have flourished with impressive new displays bringing collections to a wider audience, science museums have morphed into science centres aimed almost exclusively at children." ....

for the complete pre-conference news

WTC retail bought by Westfield

2011-07-29T09:40:00.000-07:00

from this morning's RE Business Online (7/29)

WESTFIELD SIGNS ON FOR $612.5M INVESTMENT IN WTC RETAIL COMPONENT

"NEW YORK CITY — The Westfield Group (ASX: WDC) has agreed in principle with The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey on the commercial terms for a joint venture of the retail component at the World Trade Center site. Westfield will invest $612.5 million for a 50 percent share of the joint venture, which is subject to potential increases of up to $37.5 million based on achievement of agreed yield targets. The investment will be funded progressively after the closing throughout the development period. The transaction is subject to completion of legal documentation, due diligence and final Board approvals and is expected to close in fourth quarter 2011." ...

for the complete story

AECOM and solar energy in the news!

2011-07-28T10:01:00.000-07:00

from the Sacramento Bee (7/25):

Less red tape on solar projects would mean more jobs, study says
By Rick Daysog
Published: Monday, Jul. 25, 2011 - 12:00 am | Page 5B

"Reducing government red tape for the California solar industry would create nearly 4,000 additional jobs statewide over the next decade, according to a new study.

SunRun, a leading San Francisco-based solar provider, said inconsistent government permitting processes in California add nearly $2,500 to the average cost of installing a residential solar power system, creating barriers to growth for the fast-emerging industry." ....

"The SunRun report, conducted by the engineering consulting firm AECOM, estimated that a streamlined and uniform permitting system would reduce costs by as much as 76 percent, or about $1,900, for each residential solar project."....

for the complete story

Border zone industrial real estate on the rise

2011-07-28T09:54:00.000-07:00

from this morning's RE Business Online newsletter (7/28):

El Paso/Juarez Industrial
Activity is picking up on both sides of the border.
07/19/11

"Industrial real estate activity is up in the El Paso/Juarez, Mexico metro area, indicating that the recession-driven slump, which had been intensified by reported violence on the border, has not deterred companies from making long-term commitments to the region. The increase in industrial leasing and sales, as well as improved employment statistics and increasing commercial truck crossing data are all positive signs for the future of the local industrial economy.

The industrial market in El Paso and Juarez totals 115 million square feet split between two countries and is an intersection of international manufacturing firms, global supply chains and the local economy. During the past 3 years both the global recession and security situation in Mexico have reverberated across the industrial market.

However, industrial leasing and sale activity is up on both sides of the border" ....

for the complete story

Sacramento arena financing plan?

2011-07-28T09:44:00.000-07:00

from this morning's Sacramento Bee (7/28);

Mayor's panel focuses on 'user fees' to fund new Sacramento arena
By Tony Bizjak, Ryan Lillis and Dale Kasler
Published: Thursday, Jul. 28, 2011 - 12:00 am | Page 1A
Last Modified: Thursday, Jul. 28, 2011 - 8:25 am

"Five years ago, Sacramento tried to finance a downtown sports and entertainment arena by asking voters to tax themselves. The result: an overwhelming "No way!"

With just weeks to go before a Sept. 8 deadline to reveal a new arena financing plan, the mayor's brain trust is taking a new approach they say will be more palatable.

New taxes are unlikely. Instead, it's pay to play.

Aides to Mayor Kevin Johnson say they're focused on user fees such as ticket surcharges for people who attend arena events. That revenue could be coupled with event-night parking fees at downtown garages, new corporate sponsorships, and up-front money from private companies that could build and operate the arena for the city." ...

for the complete story

New wind power for OH

2011-07-27T14:42:00.000-07:00

from today's Akron Beacon-Post (7/27)

Wind turbine project cranks up in Jackson Township
By Dave Scott
Published: July 27, 2011 - 12:27 AM

"JACKSON TWP.: The energy business is changing and the Timken Co. is gearing up to be ready for the next generation of turbines.

The company’s partnership with Stark State College, the Stark Development Board and the Stark County Port Authority broke ground Tuesday on the $11.8 million Wind Energy Research and Development Center on 15 acres at Shuffel Drive and Frank Avenue Northwest.

The 18,000-square-foot building is expected to house 65 jobs." ...

for the complete story

Life Science industry boosted near Phoenix

2011-07-27T14:36:00.000-07:00

from today's Life Science's Site Selection release (7/27):

Anderson Grows in Gilbert
The Banner M.D. Anderson Cancer Center is set to open in Gilbert, Ariz., on Sept. 26.

The Phoenix suburb gets a boost from a new cancer center.

by JOHN W. McCURRY

"The planned Sept. 26 opening of the Banner M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in the Phoenix suburb of Gilbert could be the impetus for development of a major regional and national life sciences industry, city officials say. The city is also poised to become a major center of stem cell research.

John Lewis was elected mayor of Gilbert, which has a population of about 215,000, in May 2009. He previously lived in Houston for several years and has long been aware of the impact of Houston-based M.D. Anderson and its reputation as a leading cancer center. He says M.D. Anderson's investment in Gilbert, along with the Celebration Stem Cell Centre (CSSC), help give Gilbert a life sciences cluster encompassing more than 2 million sq. ft. (185,800 sq. m.) and will serve as a major draw to the region." ...

for the complete story

Sacramento going business friendly

2011-07-27T14:18:00.001-07:00

from this morning's Sacramento Bee (7/27) --

Sacramento aims to make itself more business friendly
By Ryan Lillis
Published: Wednesday, Jul. 27, 2011 - 12:00 am | Page 3B

"City Hall wants to fix what some officials think is a hostile business environment in Sacramento.

The city is launching an effort aimed at speeding up development and doing away with regulations criticized for scaring businesses away from the city, officials announced Tuesday.

The process will begin over the next few weeks, when the city's Community Development Department will move toward placing permitting processes online, reducing fees associated with solar projects and creating "express lanes" for some projects." ...

for the complete article

ACM Staycations

2011-07-27T14:18:00.000-07:00

Want to know what North America's children's museums had to say about their summer trends and current staycation programs? Give Ruth a call.

Business Traveler study

2011-07-27T11:28:00.000-07:00

The Global Business Traveler Assn has release basic info from its annual study of corporate travelers (7/26)

"Alexandria, VA (July 26, 2011) – Business travelers increasingly use technology to make travel more productive but also to stay in touch with those back home, says a new research study released today that outlines different types of road warriors. Looking across all travelers, a strong majority (79%) noted they commonly bring technology on their trips to stay in touch with their family and friends. At least two-thirds bringing laptops, wireless broadband, portable GPS, and smartphones also utilizing mobile travel apps, among other tools." ...

"In general, looking at all road warriors:

Majority of business travelers report there is no substitute for being there in person (78%), and enjoy traveling for work (78%).

Almost half of business travelers report that staying in touch on the road with family and friends (46%) and staying safe (46%) while traveling are the most important goals on trip.

Nearly half (46%) have to work under tight budgets, putting pressure on their travel plans.

The average trip lasts four days and costs $1,837 USD.

Business travelers tend to be college-educated (71%), 38 years old on average, and male (59%)." ...

for the complete press release

AEG L.A. stadium peppers the news

2011-03-30T14:41:00.000-07:00

from today's Bloomberg Businessweek (3/30):

Los Angeles Stadium Proposal Lacks Lakers-Like Bond Guarantee
March 30, 2011, 1:59 AM EDT

"March 30 (Bloomberg) -- Billionaire Philip Anschutz’s plan to build a football stadium and convention-center addition in downtown Los Angeles offers the city a financial guarantee that falls short of what he gave with Staples Center 13 years ago.

The Anschutz subsidiary behind the project is providing no letter of credit or additional guarantee for $350 million of municipal bonds related to the development, according to a Feb. 16 proposal, unlike the backing provided for Staples Center." ....

for the complete story

Meeting to start LA stadium environmental review

"Los Angeles officials are inviting members of the public to share their concerns and suggestions surrounding a proposed downtown NFL stadium.

The scoping meeting scheduled for Wednesday evening is a required step in the project's environmental review process." ...

for the complete story

CA Green Energy legislation to impact utility company rates

2011-03-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

from this morning's Sacramento Bee (3/30)

Green-energy legislation means higher rates in California, utilities warn
Published Wednesday, Mar. 30, 2011

"Local consumers could see sharp electricity rate increases under sweeping new legislation that would require them to ramp up their energy supplies from wind, solar and other green sources, local utilities said.

On Thursday, the state Assembly voted 55-19 to approve a measure requiring power companies to obtain up to 33 percent of their energy supplies from green sources, up sharply from the current 20 percent. The state Senate already has passed the bill.

The measure, which requires the approval of Gov. Jerry Brown, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in California while boosting jobs in the state's fast-growing green economy." ....

for the complete story

L.A. Grand Ave. redevelopment plan approved

2011-03-30T07:57:00.000-07:00

from yesterday's Los Angeles Business Journal newsfeed (3/29)

Wilshire Grand Redevelopment Plan Approved
By Jacquelyn Ryan
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

"The Los Angeles City Council approved on Tuesday the $1.2 billion high-rise redevelopment of downtown’s Wilshire Grand hotel site, as well as controversial plans to light up the new towers with digital advertising.

Hotel owner Korean Air and developer Thomas Properties Group plan to raze the existing hotel at the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Figueroa Street and build a 65-story, 1.5 million square foot office building and a 45-story building comprising 650 hotel rooms and up to 100 condos." ...

for the compelte story

Anaheim Kings?

2011-03-30T07:30:00.000-07:00

from this morning's Sacramento Bee (3/30)

Anaheim approves plan to lure Kings
Published Wednesday, Mar. 30, 2011

"ANAHEIM – It's pretty much up to the Maloofs now.

In a move that probably assures the Kings will relocate, the Anaheim City Council approved a $75 million incentive plan Tuesday designed to lure the NBA team from Sacramento.

A series of 5-0 votes came as Sacramento officials all but conceded the team is gone. Although the city had hinted a day earlier that it would sue Anaheim, Mayor Kevin Johnson said Tuesday he was fine with the Kings' departure as long as the team owners, the Maloofs, repay a $77 million debt to the city." ...

for the complete story

Dallas arts district adding assembly venue

2011-03-23T12:11:00.000-07:00

From Architectural Record 3/23/2011

SOM's Arts Venue Takes Shape in Dallas
03/20/2011
Chicago Tribune

"The lone Chicago-designed building in the Dallas Arts District promises to be a modest but dignified venue for the Texas city's small to midsize arts groups -- and could rectify some of the urban design faults of its flashier neighbors.

Now under construction and known as the City Performance Hall, the publicly funded, block-filling building was designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. Its first phase, which will contain a 750-seat, two-level theater, is due to open in September 2012 and is expected to provide a home base in the prestigious arts district for a multiethnic variety of music, theater and dance troupes." ...

for the complete story

NY gets new, green, upscale library on landfill

2011-03-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

From Architectural Record 3/23/2011

Battery Park City Library
1100 Architect
New York City By Jane Kolleeny

"About 40 years ago, bedrock and dirt were excavated to build the World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan. That soil established the foundation for a 92-acre swath of land where the mixed-use neighborhood of Battery Park City was built. Landfill reuse is a fitting beginning for a planned community that today has become one of the greenest in America, due to stringent environmental guidelines developed in 1999 and implemented by the Battery Park City Authority (BPCA)."...

for the complete story

Disney Tokyo hotels close

2011-03-23T11:52:00.000-07:00

from Hotel News Now 3/23/2011

Update: Disney Tokyo hotels closed
22 March 2011 10:12 AM
By Stacey Mieyal Higgins

"REPORT FROM JAPAN (Updated 23 March, 10 a.m. eastern)—In the days since the 9.0-magnitude earthquake that rocked northern Japan, the country has received no mercy from the elements." ...

"Tokyo Disneyland

The entire Tokyo Disney Resort complex in Maihama, has been closed since the earthquake, according to a statement from Oriental Land Company Limited."...

for the complete story

Dayton Museum Shop partnering with local arts community for sales

2011-03-23T11:34:00.000-07:00

WDTN Dayton 3/21/2011

DAI Museum Store partners with Dayton Visual Arts Center to feature local artists
Updated: Monday, 21 Mar 2011, 4:25 PM EDT
Published : Monday, 21 Mar 2011, 4:25 PM EDT

"DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - The Dayton Art Institute's Museum Store has partnered with the Dayton Visual Arts Center (DVAC) to offer the work of local artists in the Museum Store." ...

for the complete story

US Labor Force Projections

2011-03-23T11:03:00.000-07:00

The Congressional Budget Office this morning released its national labor force projections through 2021.

For the report, summaries, and other info

HI tourism suffering from Japanese loses

2011-03-23T10:55:00.000-07:00

from Honolulu Star Advertiser 3/15/2011

Industry expects to take big hit
Losses in Japanese business foreseen as being extensive
POSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Mar 15, 2011

"The state's visitor industry is grappling with
thousands of cancellations in the aftermath of the
tsunami that crippled Japan and caused tens of
millions of dollars in damage in Hawaii." ...

for the complete story

NYC library adaptive reuse back on track

2011-03-23T09:44:00.000-07:00

from Hotels newsline 3/23/2011

Starwood Capital takes over New York library hotel development project
By HOTELS Editors on 3/22/2011

"NEW YORK CITY The planned conversion of a New York City library building into a luxury boutique hotel will be pursued by Starwood Capital Group now that Orient-Express Hotels has formally back out of the project.

Orient-Express has transferred its purchase and development agreements for the Donnell branch of the New York Public Library to Starwood Capital and an affiliate of Tribeca Associates LLC. The new joint venture assumes all the terms and obligations of the original contract ..."

for the complete story

San Jose to upgrade convention center

2011-03-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

from the Mercury News --

San Jose City Council approves bonds for upgrade of aging convention center
By John Woolfolk
Posted: 03/15/2011 06:15:59 PM PDT
Updated: 03/15/2011 09:56:20 PM PDT

"San Jose officials Tuesday unanimously approved bond financing for a $120 million renovation of the city's aging convention center despite potential risk to a city budget already awash in red ink.

The project posed a quandary for city officials, who are grappling with a $105.4 million shortfall in the city's general fund that may trigger major reductions in basic services such as police and libraries. Should economic assumptions and safeguards underlying the convention center financing not hold, the city would have to pay bondholders out of a general fund now in its 10th straight year of deficits, further eroding services.

But putting off the project would mean that the San Jose McEnery Convention Center would surrender business to more modern venues in Santa Clara and San Francisco." ...

for the complete story

PA open space value assessed

2010-11-30T09:21:00.000-08:00

From the Montgomery News (November 23, 2010):

Study shows economic value of open space preservation
By Evan Brandt

"Forget the bluebirds, the bog turtles and the spotted owls. ...
Instead, pick up a report released last week by the GreenSpace Alliance and the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission and what you’ll find is an in-depth discussion of cash — cold hard cash." ...

For the complete story

For the complete report or a summary

Medical facilities and land use

2010-11-29T15:35:00.000-08:00

The Industrial Asset Management Council released a white paper on property trends in the pharmaceutical industry. Included in the analysis are discussions of the impact of the rise of biotech on property needs and the impact of campus-locked facilities on reuse capabilities. They do a somewhat detailed case study of property conditions and trends in Puerto Rico.

Ultimately, their conclusion is that market conditions "dictate the appropriate solution" to the disposal of excess property. Another shocker.

For the complete paper

The RERCSC is here!

2010-11-29T15:09:00.000-08:00

For those of you have been holding your breath, the 3rd quarter of The Real Estate and Construction Report from the Real Estate Research Council of Southern California is in.

Guess what? In summary they found that So Cal's home markets "continued to struggle" with prices rising, sales calling, foreclosures down, and new permits up. The conclude that the Southern California market outlook "remains subdued."

Shocked? no, I didn't think so.

For more information on the report, contact Ruth.

Disney's "Epic"

2010-11-22T12:19:00.001-08:00

from the L.A. Times Nov 21, 2010

Disney's new video game reveals a dark side of Mickey Mouse

"The happiest place on Earth has a doppelganger. It's called Wasteland. Its denizens are forgotten, dejected and resentful. But they're not seething with rage. This is after all still a Walt Disney Co. property, even if its moniker is a topsy turvy twist on the Disneyland theme park where no one really dies and fairy princesses always prevail." ...

for the complete story

Street and Smith's Sports on L.A. stadium, soccer demographics, etc

2010-11-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

Street and Smith's Sports Business Journal for Nov 15-21 features articles on:

* the latest AEG proposal for a new, downtown L.A. football stadium
* an analysis of demographic shifts in soccer audiences
* Cubs' plan for a football festival in conjunction with Wrigley Field hosting its first college football game in nearly a century
* Edmonton's big plans for new arena development
* USTA approval of redvelopment plans for the U.S. Open facilities

Interested in reading more? Contact Ruth.

L.A. Port goes specialty solar

2010-11-22T11:58:00.001-08:00

from California Construction Nov 19, 2010

L.A. Port Solar Project Touts Self-Ballasted Racking System
By JT Long

"A new 1-MW rooftop solar installation on the World Cruise Center at the Port of Los Angeles relied on a self-ballasted racking system to protect aging structures while offsetting increased electrical demands from an Alternative Maritime Power system that lights up docked cruise ships." ...

for the complete story

The Fed on the business cycle

2010-11-22T11:54:00.000-08:00

from today's FRBSF Economic Letter (Nov 22, 2010)

Confidence and the Business Cycle
By Sylvain Leduc

"The idea that business cycle fluctuations may stem partly from changes in consumer and business confidence is controversial. One way to test the idea is to use professional economic forecasts to measure confidence at specific points in time and correlate the results with future economic activity. Such an analysis suggests that changes in expectations regarding future economic performance are important drivers of economic fluctuations. Moreover, periods of heightened optimism are followed by a tightening of monetary policy." ...

for the complete piece

Canadian Historical Aircraft Museum Facilities Upgrade

2010-11-22T11:31:00.000-08:00

from CBC News Nov 19, 2010:

Windsor's aircraft museum gets upgrade

"The Canadian Historical Aircraft Association is sprucing up its museum hangar at the Windsor airport with $720,000 from the federal government." ...

for the complete story

AECOM Econ project in the news! Plastic bags banned in Los Angeles

2010-11-17T14:33:00.001-08:00

from today's L.A. Times (Nov 17, 2010)
By Rong-Gong Lin II

L.A. County passes sweeping ban on plastic bags

"The ordinance, which by 2012 will cover 1,000 stores in unincorporated areas, also will require supermarkets and pharmacies to levy a 10-cent surcharge per paper bag. Proponents see it as a model for California.

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to ban plastic grocery bags in areas of the county under its jurisdiction, endorsing a broadly worded measure that proponents hope could become a model for California." ...

Want to hear how Economics analyzed the issue? Contact Christine Safriet.

Want to read the rest of the story ... There's even a video of bags in action!

Your new library home

2010-11-17T14:06:00.000-08:00

Say "hi" to the new home of the AECOM Economics library.

After hours of agony we're down to about 25% of our former collection, and the winners in the get-to-stay lottery are ensconsed in their new bookshelves at AECOM Headquarters. [NOTE: No books were harmed during the Period of Agony. What parts of the collection didn't find a home in AECOM Central are available with a slight delay and delivery charge from off-site storage.]

Come back soon for views of the new home of your magazine collection and the Asian Alliance Archive [Lack of space has sent them to another floor (magainzes) and other spaces (Asia).]

Hampton Roads transit plan

2010-11-17T14:01:00.000-08:00

from the Virginia-Pilot (Nov 16, 2010)

Hampton Roads transit plan envisions ferries, rail, buses
By Debbie Messina

"A tunnel dedicated exclusively to light rail and a network of fast ferries are recommended to link South Hampton Roads and the Peninsula in a draft plan for expanding public transit in Hampton Roads.

Other ideas include streetcars, bus rapid transit and commuter rail.

Work is wrapping up on the Hampton Roads Regional Transit Vision Plan, a state-sponsored study that explores ways to improve mobility and connect communities by means other than automobiles." ...

For the complete story

Smithsonian admission fees on the horizon?

2010-11-17T13:41:00.001-08:00

from the NY Times Art Beat blog (Nov 12, 2010)

Proposal Recommends Charging Admission at the Smithsonian
By KATE TAYLOR

"In New York, a visit to the Museum of Modern Art will set you back $20, but down in Washington, the Smithsonian Institution, which is 70 percent federally funded, has long been free. That would change under a proposal by the national commission charged with reducing the deficit. In a draft report Wednesday, it recommended that the Smithsonian’s federal appropriation be cut by $225 million, or roughly 30 percent, and that the institution make up the loss by charging a $7.50 admission fee." ...

for the complete story

Impacts of museum admissions fees

2010-11-17T13:35:00.000-08:00

from the Philadelphia Inquirer (Nov 14, 2010)

The costs of charging admission
This is the second mall institution to make visitors pay. Will it deter families? Officials think not.
By Stephan Salisbury

"It might usher in an era of rich expansion.

Or it might set loose a Pandora's Box of problems.

The fact is, the opening of the expanded National Museum of American Jewish History on Independence Mall is helping to establish something to which Philadelphia will have to adjust: Admissions charges for major museums in the historic district." ...

"Already the National Constitution Center, which opened in 2003, squats on the northernmost block of Independence Mall. Adult visitors shell out $12 to get in; for special exhibitions, they must pay more - $20 for the recent "Ancient Rome and America," which closed Aug. 1.

The Jewish history museum, a block and a half south of the Constitution Center, is also charging a regular adult admission of $12." ...

For the complete story

Fed Quiz

2010-11-17T08:48:00.000-08:00

The Boston branch of the Federal Reserve offers up economics quizes this time on the history of money. Give it a try -- It may not be a pub, but if you pretend to quaf something foamy and stagger a bit when you get out of your desk chair maybe you'll feel the ambiance --

The History of Money Quiz

STR announces Asia hotel pipeline highlights

2010-11-17T08:44:00.000-08:00

from STR's Hotel News Now (Nov 17, 2010)

STR Global: Asia/Pacific pipeline for Oct. 2010
17 November 2010 8:54 AM

"LONDON—The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,084 hotels totalling 265,251 rooms, according to the October 2010 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report released this week.

Among the markets in the region, New Delhi, India, ended the month with 7,558 rooms in the total active pipeline, reporting the largest expected growth if all active rooms open. New Delhi’s existing room supply is 19,034 rooms."...

for the complete
story

Energy Parks

2010-11-17T08:12:00.000-08:00

from Site Selection (10/20)

How Energy Parks Can Energize
Economic Development
by SCOTT CARLBERG

Energy Parks are a smart and sustainable asset for areas with surplus industrial property. A Charlotte park under development is leading by example.

"Economic developers are well aware of the value of industrial parks. The same concept can be borrowed to address another important facet of economic development: The growing need for electricity, which could jump by a third by 2030 according to some studies.
The concept is ‘energy parks.’..."

for the full story

AECOM and the L.A. Metro

2010-07-06T12:07:00.000-07:00

from California Construction 6/30/2010

Skanska, AECOM Break Ground on Metro’s Foothill ExtensionJune 30, 2010
By Robert Carlsen

“Skanska USA Civil West and AECOM Technical Services were selected the design-build team on the first phase of the $810-million Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension project, which broke ground last weekend at a ceremony in Arcadia.” ….

For the complete article

AR to get EDA grant to add to trail system

2010-04-07T15:37:00.000-07:00

from today's Arkansas Business Journal (4/7):

EDA Announces $2.6 Million for Bridge Renovation, UAMS
By Arkansas Business Staff - 4/7/2010 10:31:00 AM

"U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced $2.6 million in U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) grants to boost competitiveness and create new jobs for Arkansas residents.

The investment includes $2 million to the city of Little Rock to convert the old Rock Island Railroad Bridge to a pedestrian and bicycle bridge.

The renovation will improve the potential for business expansion and development by connecting the city's major attractions, including the Clinton Presidential Center, Heifer International, the Verizon Center, Dickey-Stephens baseball stadium, the River Market commercial district, the Argenta Arts District, and farmers markets in downtown Little Rock and North Little Rock, according to a press release." ...

for the complete story

Theme park industry to rise

2010-03-31T10:24:00.001-07:00

from the Orlando Sentinel (3/29):

Tourism: Outlook brightens for theme parks
By Jason Garcia and Sara K. Clarke, Orlando Sentinel
March 29, 2010

"The theme-park industry will see a modest rebound, according to a new forecast.

The market-research firm IBISWorld Inc. projects industry revenues will rise 1.7 percent in 2010, thanks to a combination of improving consumer sentiment, aggressive advertising and lower admission prices.

Overall theme-park revenue declined 8.6 percent in 2009 on a combination of falling attendance and reduced in-park spending, the Santa Monica, Calif.-based firm said." ...

for the complete story

CO ski resort visitation down

2010-03-22T12:07:00.001-07:00

From the Denver Business Journal (3/12):

Colorado ski resorts push to improve visitor numbers
Denver Business Journal - by Ed Sealover

"The recession and a lack of snow early in the ski season have translated into flat or lower revenue for resorts and nearby businesses this season — even worse than the disappointing 2008-09 winter was for the $2.6 billion Colorado ski industry.

For example, there’s Vail Resorts Inc., which owns four Colorado ski resorts and one in California. It reported that skier visits through March 7 are up 0.4 percent from last year, and revenue from skiers is up 1.6 percent, driven by a 9 percent increase in season passes sold. But dining revenue is down 1.3 percent, and its lodging bookings are down 6 percent through the end of February." ...

for the complete story and data table

Restaurant figures -- same stores sales mostly down but sometimes up

2010-03-17T12:48:00.000-07:00

From Nation's Restaurant News (3/16):

A look at industry same-store sales
By Mike Dempsey

"Nearly all public restaurant companies reported fourth-quarter same-store sales results this month, and winter storms and lingering economic pressures pushed most into negative territory. Some, mainly because of value messaging, moved in a positive direction.

For the fourth quarter, or the quarter ended closest to December for companies on a non-calendar fiscal year, quick-service chains on average posted a larger same-store sales decline than any other restaurant industry segment. Quick-service chains were hurt by rising unemployment as well as comparisons with a year earlier when sales trends for fast food were still stable. Casual-dining chains still struggled for customer traffic in the fourth quarter, but some same-store sales results did ease from a year ago. On average, pizza chains and coffee and snack brands were able to post positive same-store sales in this harsh environment, while the fast-casual segment, which is typically the fastest-growing segment, posted, on average, a same-store sales decline of 0.8 percent. That was mostly driven by a double-digit drop of 11.9 percent at Cosi." ....

for the complete story

Korpacz 2010 1st Quarter

2010-03-17T12:39:00.001-07:00

It's here! It's here!

China's golf boom... continuing?

2010-03-17T12:33:00.000-07:00

from Golf, Inc.'s blog (3/4):

China: Are you sure it can't happen here?
March 4, 2010
By Bob Vasilak
World Golf Report

"You probably already know plenty about the golf boom in China. I'm sure you've heard that golf courses are being built in the People's Republic at a dizzying, near-exponential pace that could easily result in the opening of 1,000 or more new tracks over the next two decades.

Such growth hardly seems possible, until you remind yourself that everything in China happens on a scale that would be unimaginable in a normal-sized country. If its golf participation continues to grow as it has over the past decade, China can easily accommodate another 1,000 golf courses, maybe even 10,000." ...

for the complete entry

China moves on the world's high speed rail market

2010-03-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

from EIU's Gulliver's Travel newsletter (3/16):

First China, next the world
Mar 15th 2010, 16:15 by M.A. | BEIJING

"SCARCELY a week goes by without another glowing report about racy Chinese trains. China's plans to build a 16,000-mile high-speed-rail network have been generating a lot of attention of late, thanks in part to the fascination non-Chinese readers have with the speed of China's advances—a sentiment evident in comments on Gulliver's previous related posts. China is running the world's fastest commercial rail service, and is rapidly building its vastest network. Now, as if to further stoke the fires, comes news that the country's high-speed ambitions extend beyond its borders.

On Saturday officials said China would bid for high-speed rail contracts in America, in line with an agreement reached during Barack Obama's visit in November. More intriguingly, on Friday came confirmation that China had mooted a plan to construct a high-speed network spanning 17 countries." ...

for the complete entry

Tokyo hotel occupancy continues to rise

2010-03-01T16:31:00.000-08:00

from Hotels Asia Pulse (2/26):

Tokyo hotel occupancy rises in Jan as Asian tourists increase
Asia Pulse, February 26, 2010 Friday 6:54 PM EST

"The average guest room occupancy rate at major Tokyo hotels rose 9 percentage points on the year to 68.7 per cent in January thanks to an increase in guests from other Asian countries and robust online bookings by individuals. This marked the seventh straight month of year-on-year gains." ...

for the complete story

Landmark London hotels may be taken over by the state

2010-03-01T16:27:00.000-08:00

from the Irish Times (2/26):

Can Nama give hotels the five-star treatment?
by GRETCHEN FRIEMANN

"Up to 200 hotels are set to transfer to the State, many of which are very expensive to run..."

"THREE LANDMARK London hotels, the Berkeley, Claridges and the Connaught, which are owned by financier Derek Quinlan's Maybourne Hotel Group, may end up being controlled by the National Asset Management Agency (Nama) within the next few months as the transfer of an initial €16 billion in loans nears completion.

According to well-placed sources, the first tranche of properties earmarked for Nama will also include five prestigious Irish hotels: the Shelbourne, the K-Club, the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Wicklow, and the Radisson and G Hotel in Galway. All these high-profile establishments are linked to the top 10 developers whose multi-billion-euro portfolios will form the first wave of €80 billion in loans being moved into the State's asset recovery agency." ...

for the complete story

PWC Global Entertainment and Media Outlook is here!

2010-02-24T16:38:00.000-08:00

The 2009-2013 Global Entertainment and Media Outlook from PriceWaterhouseCoopers now exists as a link off its Buzz record.

The Outlook reviews international entertainment markets and their trends broken out by region (US, Asia, Latin America, Canada, Europe, Middle East, etc.). It has topical chapters covering such sectors as as the film industry, television, video games, and publishing.

Olympic host cities and the economic impact of the Games

2010-02-16T15:02:00.000-08:00

Check out the latest issue of Planning (Feb) for an article on whether host cities win or lose from an Olympic Games. [The article includes a sidebar on Vancouver's emphasis on sustainabiliy in its development for the Games.]

Chicago theaters (stage) ticket sales on the rise, funding in decline

2010-02-12T16:03:00.000-08:00

from today's Crain's Chicago Business (2/12):

Chicago theaters see philanthropic, state support decline even as ticket sales rebound
By: Monée Fields-White February 08, 2010

"Theater fans are buying more tickets, but corporations, foundations and the state of Illinois are spoiling the happy ending for Chicago's recession-racked theater industry.

Lookingglass Theatre Company just finished its most successful subscription season in its 22-year history. The Joffrey Ballet saw a 19% jump in ticket revenue in its most recent fiscal year. And the Goodman Theatre closed out its 2008-09 season with a 15% increase in single-ticket sales." ...

for the complete story

U.S. high-speed rail plans

2010-02-11T17:21:00.000-08:00

from CNN (2/10)

High-speed rail: Skipping your town
By Steve Hargreaves, CNNMoney.com staff writerFebruary 10, 2010: 11:30 AM ET

"NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Most of the $8 billion in high-speed rail funds that President Obama awarded last month will not be used for high-speed projects, but rather to improvements designed to make existing lines faster.

Only $3.5 billion is being spent on truly high-speed rail, a sum that's not remotely close to what's needed to build a 21st century rail network. The money is going toward two projects -- one in California and the other in Florida -- that have yet to begin construction." ...

for the complete story

Duabi to sell QE2

2010-02-11T17:19:00.000-08:00

from USA Today (2/9)

Dubai selling off the Queen Elizabeth 2?
By Ben Rooney, staff reporterFebruary 9, 2010: 2:45 PM ET

"NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Dubai is reportedly preparing to sell a host of assets, including one of the world's best known cruise ships, as the emirate's investment arm looks to restructure a mountain of debt." ...

for the complete story

Latin America hotel/resort development pipeline continues to decline

2010-02-11T16:16:00.000-08:00

from today's Hotels (2/11):

Latin America Projects Off 34% From Peak
PRESS RELEASE -- Hotels, 2/11/2010 9:21:21 AM

"The Latin America Construction Pipeline declined for a seventh consecutive quarter in Q4 2009 to 453 projects/74,946 rooms, reaching a new low for the current development cycle. Total projects have declined 34% from the Q1 2008 peak, with rooms down 42%. The Caribbean and South America saw the largest drop-offs from the peak." ....

for the compelte release

Singapore expects big things from its new resorts

2010-02-11T16:13:00.000-08:00

from today's Hotels (2/11):

Singapore Tourism Emerges With Integrated Resorts
More socially liberal government paves the way for casino-resort projects and a new economic sector.
Jeff Weinstein, Editor in Chief -- Hotels, 2/11/2010 8:23:00 AM

"SINGAPORE — Singapore has been missing that "certain something" as a tourist destination. Now, finally, it may have the answer in two integrated casino-resorts-the recently opened US$4.4 billion Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) from Malaysian gaming giant Genting Group and the US$5.5 billion Marina Bay Sands (MBS) now slated for a late-April opening.

The Sands project reportedly was nearing default late last year, but Las Vegas Sands Corp. raised US$2.1 billion in a bond sale to complete the project.

The two resorts-with government regulations allotting less than 5% of their space for gaming-reflects an attempt to diversify Singapore's tourism base to compete more effectively with neighboring countries. But whether or not Singapore can compete with Macau or become the Las Vegas of Southeast Asia might depend on how consumers react to the expected imposition of restrictions in the form of a S$2,000 (US$1,440) annual fee or S$100 entry fee, as well as stringent rules for traditional gambling junkets to deter money laundering.

However, the two resorts are expected to contribute about 1% to 2% of Singapore's gross domestic product, help the country achieve visitor arrival goals of 17 million by 2015 (10 million in 2008) and eventually add 35,000 jobs to the economy. The government hopes to boost tourism earning to S$30 billion (US$21.5 billion) by 2015-tripling current figures." ...

for the complete story

DC hotels hit hard by storm

2010-02-11T16:10:00.000-08:00

from today's Washington Post (2/11):

In snowstorm, Washington hotels lose revenue but locals fill rooms
By Thomas Heath
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, February 11, 2010; A22

"The two blizzards over the past week brought huge numbers of hotel cancellations from would-be travelers to the Washington region, reducing occupancy and hotel revenue.

While the effects are hard to quantify so far, a chunk of the losses has been offset by locals who needed a hotel room, whether it was someone who had no electricity at home, a snowplow driver who needed to be near his vehicle or a ballerina performing at the Kennedy Center.

"There has been a definite loss in revenue due to the snowstorms," said Ed Virtue, general manager of the Hotel Monaco in downtown Washington, one of seven District hotels owned by San Francisco-based Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants.

Virtue said that while the storm last weekend boosted occupancy, Wednesday's blizzard caused many cancellations by groups who wanted to steer clear of the region." ...

for the complete story

Calgary national sports museum gets funding

2010-02-11T16:06:00.000-08:00

from today's Calgary Sun (2/11):

National sports museum gets federal grant
By BILL KAUFMANN, Calgary Sun
Last Updated: 11th February 2010, 8:51am

"Ottawa’s tossed a $15 million strike to ensure the building in Calgary of Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame.

Standing in front of heavy equipment that will almost immediately begin construction of the 40,000 sq.-ft. museum in the northwest corner of Canada Olympic Park, Environment Minister Jim Prentice said facility serve as a powerful symbol for aspiring athletes.

“This will be a very unique venue for sports fans of all ages and it’ll inspire our children to reach their dreams and someday find themselves in the sports hall of fame,” said Prentice.

The federal money matches the $10 million donated by the province and $5 million offered by the city to fund construction of the futuristic, tilted cube-shaped hall that’ll celebrate a wide variety of Canadian sporting achievement.

The highly-interactive centre is to open its doors in June, 2011." ...

for the complete story