May 20, 2008 10:03 am US/Eastern
Pens' Playoff Run Expected To Bring In Millions
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ―
From the start of the NHL playoffs through the end of the Stanley Cup Finals, it's estimated the Penguins run will bring in about $30 million into the city based on at least three games in the finals coming to town. That is money that wasn't anticipated, but is certainly welcome.
Tom Fedkoe, a Pittsburgh bar owner, thinks this money is helping the city a lot.
"Starlake took the summer concert series from us, Duquesne students are out of school, a lot of local businesses were bought out to build the new arena, so this would be our slow time if the Pens weren't playing hockey," he said.
Bob Andrews, who works at the Doubletree Hotel also expects business to be busier than normal.
"(The hotel has seen) a lot of activity just seeing if we have availability. But no one's really booking yet because they have to make their schedule," Andrews said.
The city plans to meet today to begin exploring what type of celebration will be in order to bring the Stanley Cup back to Pittsburgh.
Regardless of what happens, having the playoffs in Pittsburgh is an economic plus for the short and long term future of the city.
The Red Wings-Penguins series begins Saturday and Monday in Detroit.
Games 3 and 4 will be May 28 and 31 at Mellon Arena.
Stay with KDKA for more details.
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