WIAA tournament a win-win for local economy

ASHWAUBENON - For the area, the tournament is bringing more than just basketball.

It's pouring a few million dollars extra into the local economy, and area businesses are making sure fans have plenty to do between games.

Thousands of tournament guests have invaded the Green Bay area. And it looks as though they are already making an impact.

"We're staying at the Radisson and we just came shopping today, they we'll go somewhere to watch the Badger game after and then tomorrow is our last day here and we're going to watch the championships," explained Potosi High School Junior Maggie Williams.

Tourism officials expect the tournament to bring in $3 million to the local economy.

"We've definitely seen a lot of people in the mall the last couple of days. We've seen some teams out here," explained Bay Park Square Marketing Director Stephanie Blavat.

And to help make sure fans stay busy between buzzers, Lambeau Field is offering up tours every 15 minutes to help pass the time.

"We don't get to Green Bay very often, so it's nice to come up here and see some of the things here in Green Bay," explained Ross Mori of Lodi, WI.

On an average off-season weekend, Lambeau offers around 28 tours. This weekend, officials have scheduled 66.

"We've been seeing a lot of first time guests coming over here to check out the facility," explained Hall of Fame and Stadium Tour Manager Krissy Zegers. "Everyone in the community has been really excited about this event taking place, so we're just happy to be part of it."

The area bars and restaurants are also taking advantage of the off-season traffic.

The Bar is offering up a $5 coupon when visitors pay $5 to park.

Those at Stadium View expect business this weekend to double compared to an average weekend, which they say is always nice during the slow winter months.