PASADENA : Benefits of World Cup to City Total $4 Million

Pasadena took in $2 million for its general fund and received about $2 million in improvements to the Rose Bowl last summer by hosting eight World Cup games, including the final, officials said Monday.

City officials had projected that extra security costs would require as much as $400,000 of the $2 million the city was due to receive for use of the Rose Bowl from World Cup USA. But unexpectedly light security demands during the nearly trouble-free tournament meant the city did not have to dip into the $2 million, officials said.

World Cup also paid for stadium improvements, including widening the Rose Bowl’s field and building a handicapped seating area, as part of its contract with the city.

Pasadena officials have earmarked $1 million of the money for more police officers and anti-gang and recreation programs, and are placing the rest in reserve.