Big Sky Brings Big Boost To Pocatello Businesses

The Big Sky Tournament is bringing a big boost to local businesses in the Pocatello area.

Members the Pocatello business community said it hasn’t been hard to spot the economic effect of the tournament.

“If you were out trying to get into a restaurant yesterday you probably ran into a team somewhere and their fans. So it makes it busy and a little longer wait, but great for our economy and the tax base,? Town Place Suites by Marriott General Manager Bill Code said.

The Big Sky has brought five teams into the city, all needing places to stay, eat, and have fun.

“I think people are out and about this weekend. They’re getting hotel rooms for their friends and family, they’re eating out dinner and they’re coming to the games. So everything is making money this weekend,? ISU Director of Ticketing Erin Joy said.

All those people are heading to the games and buying tickets.

“Our office is busy. Phones are ringing off the hook, and we’ve had a lot of walkups,? Joy said

Code said his hotel has about two dozen rooms filled because of the tournament.

“Northern Colorado is the team that’s staying with us, and many parents and fans have come along and stayed at the hotel where their family members and teams are staying. So it’s a nice benefit,? Code said.

Code is a longtime fan of the Bengals, and said he’s plenty glad the team in his hotel doesn’t have to face them tonight.

“I’m actually going to wearing a blue shirt during the Northern Colorado game because I want them to win for another night’s revenue, a little selfish,? Code said.