AQUARIUM: Economic engine area powerhouse

When I announced that the Georgia Aquarium would be built in the heart of downtown Atlanta, I specified two key reasons: first, as a thank-you to the people of the city and the state; and, second, to provide an economic stimulus to that part of the city.

The aquarium, which opened in 2005, became the catalyst for economic growth that had originally begun in 1996 with the opening of Centennial Olympic Park. Not only did the aquarium create more than 1,000 jobs and revitalize the district with billions of dollars in construction, it energized a leisure market, drawing almost 10 million visitors in less than four years.

Despite today’s economic concerns, the aquarium continues its commitment to providing new and exciting experiences. Work has begun on a $110 million expansion that will bring dolphin exhibits, shows and encounters to aquarium guests in 2010.

Bernie Marcus is a Georgia Aquarium benefactor, and was chairman and chief executive officer and co-founder of Home Depot.