The economics of stadium renovations

The city of Charlotte has struck a deal with Tepper Sports and Entertainment on funding renovations at Bank of America Stadium, the home to the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC. The city, which would spend $650 million in tourism tax money for the project, says the deal makes smart business sense because the stadium is responsible for more than $1 billion annually in economic impact to the Charlotte region.This newsy and bonus episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast examines the economic effects of sports stadiums, in a conversation with Fred Smith, an economics professor at Davidson College. He teaches courses on urban and public economics, as well as sports economics and American economic history. He spoke with The Ledger's Tony Mecia shortly after the deal was announced in early June 2024.The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks.You can find out more about The Charlotte Ledger and sign up for our newsletters at TheCharlotteLedger.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thecharlotteledger.com/subscribe