The Monaco Coaches International Rally has made a stop at the Clark County Fairgrounds this week and the event could generate big revenue for Springfield.
For the second time in five years, about 250 motor coaches have descended on the Clark County Fairgrounds.
Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau Director Chris Schutte said the motor coach rally will have a strong impact on the local economy.
"While they are not staying in hotels, they are getting out on a daily basis to our attractions, restaurants and retail stores," he said. "If you look at the standard multipliers supplied to us by Tourism Ohio, this group could account for as much $500,000 of economic impact which is absolutely great for the community."
Group motor coach tours account for nearly 10 percent of Clark County's tourism revenue and Schutte said Springfield's geography helps lure groups like Monaco to the area.
"Our location very definitely caters to a lot of groups because it is so central, especially when you are pulling people from a national base and these guys very definitely are," Schutte said. "It is a great central place and the fairgrounds is obviously just off of I-70 and I think once they get into Springfield, there is a lot for them to do and experience."
Schutte said the Clark County Visitors Bureau will continue to work with the Monaco Rally group to schedule more frequent visits in the future.