The National League of Cities will host its annual convention in Denver in 2010.
Denver officials actively sought to host the convention, called the 87th annual Congress of Cities and Exposition.
“Not only will our local economy benefit from a convention of this size, but it will also provide us with an opportunity to show city leaders from across the country why Denver is one of the most energetic cities in America,” Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper said in a prepared statement after the announcement Friday.
The league estimates the five-day event will attract more than 6,000 people to Denver and create a $6 million to $10 million economic boost to the economy.
The National League of Cities is the oldest and largest national organization representing municipal governments. It provides resources and advocacy for 19,000 cities, town and villages, which serve a total of 225 million people.
During the convention, the league will partner with Denver to develop educational programs to highlight city accomplishments. The event also will feature an exhibit hall that showcases cities and towns.
The effort to bring the annual convention to Denver grew out of last year’s economic development summit the league held in Denver, said Sherry Appel, communications director for the league.
Hickenlooper participated in the summit, then had city officials pursue the annual convention, Appel said.
The last time the league held the event in Denver was in the 1970s, she said.
“Denver is a renaissance city in an area noted for its scenic beauty and character,” said the league’s president, James Hunt, in a statement. “The region is also home to some of the most dynamic and creative elected officials in the U.S.”
Staff writer Christopher N. Osher can be reached at 303-820-1747 or cosher@denverpost.com.
