Economic impact of SEC Tournament in Hoover
HOOVER, Ala. (WIAT) — The SEC tournament is wrapping up in Hoover, with the final day of play planned for Sunday. The impact of the tournament has had a far-reaching impact, bringing millions of dollars to central Alabama.
Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato says this year's SEC Tournament is projected to pump $17 million into the local economy.
'The events that are held here, people come from all over the world. Particularly the United States, but all over the world,' Brocato said.
Those words from Mayor Brocato rand true on Saturday. CBS 42 caught up with first-time SEC Tournament attendee Easton Moss and his mom, Ashley. Ashley Moss said the Hoover Met is a great place to watch the tournament.
'It's a great facility, I hope we are watching my son play here one day,' she said. 'Everyone's been really welcoming. It's a great atmosphere all around.'
Over the last year, the city of Hoover has invested $25 million into the Hoover Met. Mayor Brocato says this investment pays off for all of central Alabama.
'This is a metro event. It's really a statewide event, but certainly the metropolitan area benefits a great deal for it. We are part of the metro, and we want to see all of our cities thrive,' he explained.
The next big event at the Hoover Met will be the World Police and Fire Games in June.
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