As sternwheelers line the levee at Charleston’s Haddad Riverfront Park, the capital city is revving up its economic engine in hopes of another strong year. The Charleston Sternwheel Regatta has made a significant impact on the local economy since its reintroduction in 2022. “It is the most significant economic tourism activity in the state of West Virginia every year,” Charleston Regatta Commission Chair Andy Richardson said. Last year the Regatta brought in $38.8 million. Each year that number is calculated by the Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau. The CVB works with data companies to use zip codes, credit card information and cellphone data to see who is coming in and how they are spending money during Regatta.