Boston Economy Gets Boost Ahead of Marathon Monday
BOSTON (CBS) - After a difficult winter, Boston businesses are getting a much needed boost ahead of the Boston Marathon on Monday.
Two days before the big race, Boylston Street was bustling. Thousands of runners and spectators are joining in what can really be called "Marathon Weekend."
The race and related events bring in nearly $200 million into the local economy.
"This is so important," said Mayor Marty Walsh. "We're talking $100-plus million on this weekend alone...This will have a big impact."
We all remember how bad the winter was. So bad that many of these downtown businesses lost entire days of income.
Now on a sunny Saturday, that seems so far away. Marathoners ready for a big Saturday and Sunday.
Malcolm Thomas, a marathoner, says he will be watching the Miler and a Boston Red Sox game this weekend before the marathon.
There's no doubt the marathon makes the local economy hum. Once the runners pick up their bib numbers, they've got to eat, stay at hotels and enjoy some entertainment. It all adds up to a big weekend.
"Boston will always be Boston," says marathoner Adam Sulkowski. "I love it. It's a rite of spring...it's time to run."
