Local business leaders agree the 2012 BC Summer Games will showcase Surrey's renaissance to the rest of the province.
Anita Huberman, Surrey Board of Trade CEO, says visitors can experience shopping at the newly renovated Guilford Town Centre or outdoors at Grandview Corners – and a diverse dining scene in the city.
"I think first of all with any games, especially the BC Summer Games, it's really going to put Surrey on the map," says Huberman.
About 4,000 visitors – including spectators, athletes, officials and coaches, as well as their families and friends – are expected to flow into the city July 19-22.
The economic impact on Surrey is expected to be between $2.5 and $3 million, says Huberman, with people spending money in restaurants, shopping malls and transportation.
The Surrey Board of Trade is a big supporter of the Games, with some staff even signing up to volunteer, Huberman adds.
Ryan Matheson, director of sales and marketing for the Sheraton Vancouver Guilford Hotel – the official accommodation of the 2012 BC Summer Games – welcomes the added boost to Surrey's tourism sector.
"It's going to be fantastic for the four days that [the athletes] are here to see the facilities that Surrey has to offer," says Matheson.
He is expecting the hotel – which will be a hub of activity during the BC Summer Games – to be sold out that week.