Venice Chamber of Commerce: Tourism Has Not Been Affected By Saturday’s Rampage

Saturday evening’s rampage, in which 38-year-old Nathan L. Campbell allegedly drove a car along the Venice Boardwalk, killing one and injuring 16, has not stopped people flocking to the tourist site, Venice Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Donna Lasman told Patch on Tuesday.

“We don’t expect there is going to be any significant impact on tourism or on the boardwalk. The boardwalk is as busy as ever,” Lasman said.

She added that “events and incidents, unfortunate and tragic as they are… occur,” whether they are in Los Angeles or elsewhere. "People have short media memories,” Lasman said.

In addition to the passage of CD 11 Councilman Mike Bonin’s motion to upgrade security and safety on the boardwalk, Lasman said that immediate steps are also being taken by Chamber and Safety members to “increase patrolling in the area and to assess and how the area can be made safer.”

She also stated that the local business community is holding meetings with various associations to discuss what they can do to help visitors to be secure. “Venice safety and visitor experience has always been a priority of [the Chamber], Lasman said, even before Saturday’s tragedy. “And,” she added, “It will continue to be a priority.”