on February 25, 2010 / by Downtown Dallas Inc. / in Blog Posts, Clean and Safe

Too often, we neglect to recognize our City officials when “bad things don’t happen” thanks to their efforts.  In this case, not only did bad things not happen, but in fact Dallas experienced a widespread success of NBA All-Star weekend.

We sat with anxious excitement awaiting the hundreds of thousands that would flood the area.  A crowd larger than any All-Star game has attracted in its history.   A crowd of size, celebrity and attention like we have never seen.

In Downtown, our restaurants were brimming.  Traffic surrounding the Dallas Convention Center and American Airlines center was bumper-to-bumper.  Block-long lines wrapped around nightclubs.  Paparazzi, media trucks and limousines blocked sidewalks. And it was good.  Organized chaos.  At one point the Dallas Police Department determined it best to close a significant portion of Main Street.  We survived.  In fact, we thrived.   Positive reports are pouring in from residents, businesses and visitors, and dollar amounts are being quoted in excess of $150 million in economic impact.

So with that, DOWNTOWNDALLAS would like to congratulate the City of Dallas, including our Mayor, City Council Members, City Manager, Dallas Police Department and countless City staff on the success of the NBA All-Star weekend.   In addition, the NBA-All Star Committee should be commended for the organization and planning that was done surrounding this event.  DOWNTOWNDALLAS was at the table and we watched the machine work first-hand.

As we enter a new era in our city, one of attracting hundreds of thousands from across the nation to events like the All-Star Game –  the Super Bowl, Final Four, and more – it is imperative that we not only ensure our visitors walk away with the best experience possible, but also that the quality of life of our residents is maintained.  The ability to do so, from our perspective, was exceeded by all involved.

Thank you, and congratulations!

tags: City of Dallas See More Posts