Situation In Atlanta, the recently constructed Mercedes-Benz Stadium (2017) immediately abuts neighbourhoods with high vacancy rates, population decline and high crime levels. Many stakeholders agreed the stadium should do more than “do no harm”, and instead should also boost resident well-being, as risks of further displacement and social tensions rose. Visitor volumes (~3 million/year) threatened to overwhelm narrow, under -invested streets and public spaces.Approach Engagement opportunities: Spaces suitable for drop-ins or workshops were created, which allowed members of the community to provide input on specific stadium-adjacent projects (e.g. flood-resilient parks, public art murals). Tourism-linked livelihoods: A programme that prepared residents for the visitor economy and placed them into direct stadium roles (hospitality, concessions and security). Balanced destination management: $50 million invested in multi-use green infrastructure designed both for stormwater mitigation and to serve as gathering spaces for game-day crowds and community events.CASE STUDY 2 Atlanta: More than a stadium ImpactLocal hiring: More than 700 residents trained and 150+ employed in stadium roles, boosting household incomes while giving visitors authentic community encounters. Safer streets: Overall, crime in Westside (the areas to the west and south of the stadium) fell by 43% after the installation of 100 Operation Shield cameras and deployment of patrols, benefiting both residents and out-of-town guests. Shared spaces: New parks and improved streetscapes now host pre-game tailgate parties, neighbourhood tours and cultural events, preserving local character and enriching the visitor experience. Source: Curbed Atlanta100 and Career Rise101 Caption: Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia Travel and Tourism at a Turning Point: Principles for Transformative Growth 24

Travel and Tourism at a Turning Point 2025