By Charlize Ramos (WIAT)
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The return of college football has reignited economic activity in Tuscaloosa, with the University of Alabama’s first home game against Louisiana-Monroe drawing large crowds to Bryant-Denny Stadium and surrounding businesses. Local shops and eateries are reporting increased foot traffic, a trend that typically peaks during game weekends.
At Alabama Vintage, a retail store near campus, manager Dru Pruitt noted a visible surge in visitors. “They come in, take a look around, and often make a purchase,” Pruitt said. “It’s not just us—restaurants nearby benefit too. This time of year, everything feels more alive.”
One such establishment, the Crimson Tab, has seen a notable uptick in customers. Kitchen manager Ebony Harris explained that while the workload intensifies, the influx of visitors makes it worthwhile. “We serve locals, but also fans from out of state who travel here with their families,” Harris said. “Game days are hectic, but they’re also great for business.”
Residents like Alabama supporter Krista Gogan observe the broader economic ripple effect. “You can feel the difference,” Gogan said. “So many people come in just for the weekend, and local shops and restaurants rely on that boost.”
Despite the energy, some business owners expressed surprise at the relatively lower turnout compared to previous seasons. However, with the Crimson Tide securing a win over Louisiana-Monroe, anticipation is building for the upcoming home game against Wisconsin, expected to draw even larger crowds.
— news from The Trussville Tribune
— News Original —
Economic Impact of College Football in Tuscaloosa
By Charlize Ramos (WIAT) n nTUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Football is back in full swing in Tuscaloosa, and businesses are feeling the impact with the first home game kicking off Saturday against Louisiana-Monroe. n nFans filled the stadium, as well as local businesses like Alabama Vintage. n n“They’ll come in and it’s a look, see how it is,” said Dru Pruitt, manager of Alabama Vintage. “So yeah, that really helps. And then we get foot traffic to fly other restaurants, local restaurants close to us. So, they have done a lot. So definitely busier than during the rest of the year.” n nOne of those nearby restaurants is the Crimson Tab. Kitchen manager Ebony Harris says that, while it’s their busiest season, it’s definitely worth the extra work. n n“We have a lot of locals, of course, but we have a lot of people from everywhere else that come with their family,” Harris said. “They’re coming to these games and it’s exciting. Times is very busy. I mean, it’s great for sure.” n nLocals say they notice how important game days are for businesses in the city. n n“Football season definitely affects the business,” said Alabama fan Krista Gogan. “You can just tell it brings so many people in and all these businesses just bank on all these tourists coming in for a game day.” n nWhile Saturday night was busy, some local businesses say they are surprised this first home game wasn’t as busy as past games. However, with the Crimson Tide winning against Louisiana-Monroe, they expect more customers when Alabama takes on Wisconsin at home next weekend.