Could Gig Harbor Benefit Directly From The 2015 U.S. Open?

Pierce County is indicating that surrounding cities could be asked to help the 2015 U.S. Open run smoothly.

There's no indication what, if anything, Gig Harbor will be asked to contribute.

But the question got me thinking: What kind of role will Gig Harbor play when the 2015 U.S. Open comes to Chambers Bay Golf Course in University Place?

Some 235,000 visitors are expected to converge on the rolling links golf course across the water. For some, it will be their first visit to the South Sound. Some will have money to burn.

But would those tourists be willing to drive across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge to visit and burn some of that money in Gig Harbor? I mean, we're a destination city, with picturesque backdrops and small-town charm, but it's not like visitors will simply be passing through.

Visitors are expected to park at lots and be shuttled to the golf course. Unless organizers place one of those lots on this side of the bridge, visitors would have to be somewhat determined to visit the Harbor. And there's that little issue of the bridge toll.

So, we put the question to you, Gig Harbor Patch users, what kind of role do you think the community will play when the 2015 U.S. Open rolls around? Engaged neighbor? Cranky neighbor? Distant observer? Tell us in the comments below.