Newport gears up for international race and tourists

April 19, 2015 9:54 am

By The Associated Press

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) _ The city of Newport is gearing up to be the only North American stop for the international Volvo Ocean Race, hoping it will be a huge boost to the city-by-the-sea’s economy.

Sail Newport executive director Brad Reed says the race is an opportunity to “show off Rhode Island.”

The nonprofit sailing center put together the city’s bid to host the stopover scheduled for May 5 through 17.

State officials have said the event will generate tourism in Rhode Island and give the state international exposure, similar to the America’s Cup World Series regatta in 2012.

That race generated more than $50 million in economic activity.

Gov. Gina Raimondo’s budget allocates $775,000 for public safety, sanitation and event logistics. The state is expected to generate significant returns on its investment.