The Ellen Noël Art Museum Monday released the results of an updated study conducted by The Perryman Group that announced the increased economic benefits of the museum’s current expansion project and its impact on Odessa and the surrounding area in West Texas.
Entitled “Enhancing the Arts and Opportunities in the Permian Basin,” this new study, conducted in May of 2024 reveals greatly enhanced benefits to the area.
Upon completion of the current expansion and renovation of the museum, notable investments will have been made during the construction stage of the project. In addition, ongoing benefits would be generated by the expanded operations at the museum as well as increased visits by both residents and out-of-area visitors.
The study estimates that the construction renovation stage would lead to an increase in business activity in the Odessa area of more than $17 million in output (gross product) and 163 job-years by project workers. “That’s an increase from $9.4 million in gross product, and 104 jobs since the original study was done in March of 2021,” Ray Perryman, president and CEO of the Perryman Group based in Waco, said in a news release.
“Ongoing annual benefits of the expansion from incremental operations and tourism include an estimated $17.6 million in gross product and 199 jobs when multiplier effects are considered,” Perryman added.
These new projections are up from $11.8 million and 155 jobs, respectively, compared to original study projections.
Ellen Noël Art Museum Executive Director Sheila Perry said in the release she is thrilled with the progress being made on the renovation project and these new impact figures on the local economy.
“We are making wonderful progress each day in realizing our vision for this museum and the arts community as a whole here in the Permian Basin. I encourage all West Texans to drive by the museum and see the improvements for themselves. And we are still accepting both corporate and individual donations to help us complete the project,” Perry said.
Donations toward the completion of the renovation project can be made on the museum’s website (noelartmuseum.org), by contacting Alondra Tamez at 432-550-9696 X 210, or by emailing [email protected].
