The City today released preliminary numbers for the 73rd Annual Magic City Classic. This year’s Classic was considered a big success generating an estimated $26 million in economic impact for the City. Although the Magic City Classic Budget was cut by $50,000 during this year’s budget process, attendance was at a record high of 67, 710 (63,000 in 2013) inside the stadium and an additional estimated 150,000 participants in attendance for events and activities outside of Legion Field.
This year’s Classic saw a post half time retention of spectators in the stadium thanks in part to the post game concert, which saw a record attendance of more than 20,000 music fans. “The Magic City Classic accounts for the largest single economic impact event for the City each year. We are excited to see it continue to grow and expand,” said Mayor William Bell. The City has seen an increase in the lodgings tax by 11% so far this fiscal year along with a 13% increase in special lodgings tax. The administration’s effort to attract large scale events to the City is credited for the increase.
Detailed spending is as follows:
