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OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Things have definitely changed at Ottumwa’s Bridge View Center over the last four months.

Since VenuWorks took over operations, foot-traffic has increased, and so has the popularity of the center. For the first time in Bridge View’s history, sell-out crowds to events took place; which in turn is good for all of Ottumwa.

“Those three events combined, 7,389 persons walked through those doors. That is a direct spending of $147,780, and an economic impact over $353,000,” said Larry Gawronski, Executive Director of the Bridge View Center.

Gawronski and his staff have worked tirelessly to improve not only the image of the Bridge View Center, but the financials as well.

“Right now we are performing at $120,600, so that is approximately $130,000 better than a projection for the four months from November through February; and we are on track to beat that $400,000 by probably $150-170,000,” said Gawronski.

He contributes the increased revenue to more popular events at the center, such as the recent monster truck show, the bull riding event and the popular Oak Ridge Boys.

Gawronski told KTVO that is staff is focused on making memories for families and those who attend events at Bridge View. That among other factors is one reason why the revenue has increased at Bridge View Center.

For more information on Ottumwa’s Bridge View Center and future events being held at the facility, click here.