WEST SACRAMENTO, California — The A's are coming to Sacramento, and businesses are already looking to reap the benefits from the predicted economic impact.
The Greater Sacramento Economic Council says it wasn't clear this would even happen a few weeks ago. The major announcement brings baseball lovers from all around.
As a result, businesses are already looking to reap the benefits from the predicted economic impact.
"This is going to bring an economic prosperity here for all of our restaurants, Franquette's, The Barn, down the street down to Midway Grill," said Martha Guerrero, West Sacramento mayor.
The owner of Franquette says they were holding out hope it would happen. They're located on Bridge Street, just walking distance from Sutter Health Park.
"First and foremost, I think it's a big win for the region and for obviously, the small businesses in the community, West Sacramento and downtown Sacramento. I think we're all gonna benefit from having these great crowds come in," said Clay Nutting, a co-owner of Franquette.
The excitement is also palpable at Midway Bar and Grill down the road.
"I feel like with more people coming in, it's going to give those restaurants or businesses that haven't been getting the business to have their opportunity now. And we're really excited to see new faces," said Jaden Slama, a bartender and server at the Midway Bar & Grill.
Barry Broome, president and CEO of the Greater Sacramento Economic Council, said the magnitude of the move is almost like the economic impact of a university.
Mayor Guerrero also anticipates the move adding thousands of jobs.
"Because it's going to be ongoing now to have games being played. So, we're going to have a lot more games, and we're looking forward to seeing more job opportunities coming in here in the region," said Guerrero.
Some businesses might even have to stay open later.
"There are people who are just really care about continuing to push this region forward, and this is yet another example. So, all the benefits that we'll feel as business is just icing on the cake for what the region's is going to experience as a win," said Nutting.
As for a plan with how to deal with the influx of customers, businesses say it's too soon to tell, but their wheels are already starting to spin with ideas.
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