CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The PGA saw record ticket sales for this year's championship at Quail Hollow and the city hopes to cash in for years to come.
“Typically, it's north of $100 million in positive economic impact,” PGA Championship Jason Mengel said.
Charlotte will feel the economic impact from the 200,000 fans expected this week, he said.
Many are staying in hotels, eating at local restaurants and buying gasoline.
The championship also created 1,100 temporary jobs, such as the contractors building the massive infrastructure.
Rusty's Grille is preparing to serve a lot of food and equip thirsty fans.
“Order a few extra beers, have everything stocked up and ready to go,” said Peter Acker-Estes, with the restaurant.
It's not just money that Charlotte needs now.
The House Bill 2 controversy cost Charlotte the NBA All-Star Game and more, as well as tarnishing the city's reputation for southern charm.
The Queen City will get plenty of much-needed good press and there will be plenty of it with 1,000 media members and 28 hours of live network TV coverage reaching 550 million homes.
Tom Murray and his team from the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority are taking advantage of that.
Cox Media Group
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