SPOKANE, Wash.—The $5.6-billion Gesa Credit Union has purchased the naming rights to the Spokane Pavilion at Riverfront Park for $2.6 million over the next 10 years, Yahoo Finance reported.
The landmark, a 5,100-seat venue stands as a central hub for family-friendly events, entertainment and cultural activities, will be known as the Gesa Credit Union Pavilion.
It's not Gesa's only, nor most expensive, naming rights deal in the region. In 2021, the credit union purchased the rights to the playing field at Washington State University's Martin Stadium under a 10-year, $11-million agreement, Yahoo Finance said.
The park board has been seeking a naming rights sponsor for the Pavilion since 2019, although efforts were stalled in 2020 and 2021 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Attempts to find an interested party in 2022 and 2023 were unsuccessful, Yahoo Finance said.
“The deal is not without controversy, with opponents arguing it is inappropriate to sell the naming rights to one of the city's most iconic monuments. In January, Mayor Lisa Brown expressed her opposition in a letter to the independent parks board, which had final approval in the matter,” Yahoo Finance said.
“We’re honored to partner with the Spokane Pavilion and see it become the Gesa Credit Union Pavilion, as it represents more than just a name change – it’s a reflection of our commitment to Spokane and its people,” said Brandon Allison, AVP of community impact at Gesa Credit Union. “This partnership allows us to invest in a space that truly embodies the heart of the community. By putting our name on this iconic venue, we’re thrilled to grow our roots in Spokane, enriching the lives of those we serve and creating one-of-a-kind events for the community.”
Gesa is headquartered in Richland, Wash.