The Braves' AA Team Moves to Columbus, GA: Economic Implications for the Local Area

Hold onto your hats, Columbus, GA—our city is about to hit a home run! The Mississippi Braves' (AA team) is moving to town, and while we’re all excited for the crack of the bat and the thrill of the game, there’s more at play here than just baseball. This move promises to bring some serious economic perks along with it, according to one CSU professor’s impact study. So, let’s slide into home plate and explore how this change could positively impact our local area.

Boost to Local Tourism

The arrival of the Braves' AA team is expected to attract numerous visitors from neighboring cities and states. Fans coming to watch the games at the newly renovated Golden Park will likely fill up local hotels and short-term rentals, especially in the Historical District.  The city is set to raise $50M in municipal bonds (taxpayer money) to redevelop the park that was originally built in 1926.  The deal is supposedly part of a larger $300M deal to renovate not only Golden Park but also redevelop the South Commons into a mixed-use development. This influx of tourists is projected to increase Muscogee’s gross domestic product by $260M with $179M of those funds attributed to “labor income”, according to one source.  This new revenue into the local economy, supporting small businesses and creating a vibrant, bustling atmosphere on game days. All these activities can have a positive ripple effect on property value in Columbus, as increased tourism often leads to higher demand for both residential and commercial properties particularly in the Historical Districts and East Highlands areas that are near the park.

Job Creation and Economic Stability

The new team will create a range of jobs, both directly and indirectly and the City is projecting a total addition of 3,934 jobs (a 3% increase to Muscogee’s overall labor market). The stadium will need staff for operations, concessions, security, and maintenance. Additionally, local service industries such as restaurants, bars, and retail stores will likely see increased demand, prompting them to hire more employees. This job creation will enhance the economic stability of Columbus, providing more opportunities for residents and boosting local employment rates.

Infrastructure Development

Anticipating increased foot traffic and the need for improved facilities, the city might invest in upgrading roads, public transportation, and community spaces. Such developments not only improve the quality of life for residents but also make Columbus a more attractive destination for future investments and events. This could be a long-awaited project to give life back to Victory Dr.  Enhanced infrastructure can lead to long-term economic growth and development for the area, further driving up property value in Columbus as the city becomes more accessible and desirable.

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Community Pride and Cohesion

The presence of a professional sports team can foster a stronger sense of community pride and cohesion. Sporting events often bring people together, creating a shared sense of excitement and camaraderie. A more engaged and connected community could enhance Columbus real estate appeal, as people are often drawn to areas with strong community ties and vibrant local culture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the relocation of the Braves' AA team to Columbus, GA, is more than just a grand slam for sports fans; it’s a major league win for our local economy. From boosting tourism and job creation to spurring infrastructure development and enhancing community spirit, this move has the potential to bring numerous benefits to our city. Property managers in Columbus should prepare for increased demand, while property value in Columbus is likely to see a positive uptick. So, let’s break out the peanuts and Cracker Jack, welcome the team with open arms, and get ready to cheer on our new home team! Play ball!

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