An event that makes an estimated $2 million annual economic impact for Amarillo will remain here through 2015.

The Working Ranch Cowboys Association has signed an agreement with the Amarillo Civic Center and Amarillo Convention & Visitor Council to produce the rodeos here till 2015. Increased costs in other locations the incentives here helped Amarillo retain the events being courted by cities such as Las Vegas, Oklahoma City.

WRCA rodeo and trade show activities this year will fill the entire Civic Center complex, the trade show and daytime activities have annually drawn a combined of 40,000 people. The city of Amarillo has agreed to apply to the Texas Events Trust Fund for a rebate of state sales tax generated by the rodeo, well the rebates can be used to offset event production costs on the event or even make improvements.

Cities bidding to grab the WRCA Rodeo offered their larger facilities ,but then moving the event also would add some costs, such as union wages for labor or parking charges, that might prevent the association from holding ticket prices at a reasonable level. Also it showcases the skills of working cowboys and serves as the primary fundraiser for the Working Ranch Cowboys Foundation. So for Amarillo to keep WRCA here is going to be great for the next 3 years keeping money flowing though out the city even a civic center expansion.

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