Economic Impact of Straw Poll Translates Into a Punch, Not a Wallop for Iowa

It’s not the Iowa State Fair, RAGBRAI (The Register's Annual Bike Ride Across Iowa) or even the Des Moines Arts Festival (three of Iowa’s biggest events) but there’s no denying that an event the size of the Ames Straw Poll is bound to draw a crowd -- and generate some cash.

With this year’s estimated attendance at more than 30,000 people, you’re likely to find fully-booked hotels, restaurant waiting lists and longer lines at your neighborhood Starbucks from Ames to Des Moines and in every city in-between.

The impact on this city of nearly 60,000 is certainly nothing to shake a stick at.  The Ames Convention and Visitors Bureau estimates Ames will generate nearly $2 million in revenue this week alone, a majority from overnight guests participating in tonight's debate, Saturday's Straw Poll or other campaign-related activities.

“There is a lot of attention on Iowa right now,” said Jessica O’Riley, communications manager for the Iowa Tourism Office.  “Visitors are staying in hotels, buying food and leaving their impact on the state.”

And impacted they have. A majority of Ames’ 1,400 hotel rooms have been reserved for 45 days or more and restaurants have added staff just to accommodate the crowds.

At the Grand Stay Inn in Ames, only a handful of rooms were still available for Friday. Saturday, the day of the Straw Poll, was completely booked. The hotel’s general manager, Alicia Roufs, advised visitors without accommodations to check into neighboring towns like Nevada and Ankeny for a place to stay.  

“We're sold out,” she said. “All of Ames is, honestly.”

Mike Roberts, a general manager at Legends American Grill, said the restaurant has seen an uptick in business this week. Party rooms are booked and he's ordered extra appetizers and a few extra cases of beer just to meet the demand. He expects to do about $2,000 more in sales through Sunday.  

All of that sounds like a nice shot in the arm for this quaint little college town. Nice, but not huge, say those close to the scene.

David Swenson, an economics professor at Iowa State University, said the impact on Ames doesn’t translate to big dollar signs. In fact, its effect is similar to Ames hosting a Cyclone football or basketball game.

“Most of Ames treats the Straw Poll like any other athletic event or concert,” said Swenson.

Even Roberts agreed that while Legends may make some extra cash over the weekend, it doesn’t compare to the business done during a Cyclone home game at the 55,000-seat Jack Trice Stadium. Then, he says, he could sell $8,000 worth of food and beer.

Take heart, the Straw Poll isn’t necessarily a loss. O’Riley said while the big bank may not be evident, the impact can still be felt in other areas. Campaign managers book their candidates into more “touristy” locations and events like the Field of Dreams in Dyersville or the Iowa State Fair. That means more recognition for Iowa.

One thing Iowans can count on is that the Straw Poll, the proverbial bridesmaid of events, paves the way for the big show in February when all political eyes focus on the Iowa Caucuses.

“I think it’s like a little appetizer,” O’Riley said. “We certainly see a lot more attention paid to Iowa come caucus time.  Any time Iowa gets national attention, that’s a good thing.”