Harrison "Buzz" Price, one of the great pioneers of the visitor attractions industry, passed away last night (15 August) at the age of 89.

Best associated with his work for the Disney Group, the research economist was the man who recommended Anaheim to Walt Disney as the location for Disneyland.

Later, encouraged by Walt Disney, Price formed Economics Research Associates (ERA) in 1958.

Ultimately, he conducted 150 studies for the Walt Disney Company, including site and feasibility analysis for Walt Disney World in Florida and Tokyo Disneyland – as well as more than 3,000 projects for other clients.

After selling ERA in 1969, most of Price's projects were under the aegis of his own Harrison Price Company, including studies for eight World's Fairs, Sea World, Knott's Berry Farm, Universal Studios, the Six Flags parks, museums, zoos and many feasibility analyses for international projects.

He was inducted into the IAAPA Hall of Fame in 1996 and also received the First Lifetime Achievement Award from the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA).

He is survived by spouse Anne Shaw Price; children Dana Price (Ken Powell), David Price (Alicia), Bret Price (Rae Lynn) and Holly Shaw Ristuccia (Al); sister Patricia Scott Mannarino, nine grand children and two great-grand children.

Marty Sklar, president of Ryman Arts and retired vice chair of Walt Disney Imagineering, said: "Few people have created the opportunities for learning and training young talent in the arts as Buzz Price did.

"Whether we are film, theatre or theme park fans, we should all thank our lucky stars that Walt Disney had a 'numbers man' who loved music, art and poetry."

To read an interview with Harrison Price, conducted in 2004, please see Attractions Management, Q3 2004, pp. 76-77. click here for interview