IMO I think it varies by community but generally speaking it probably has only small positive affect. However specifically to Jax I think overall it has been pretty positive. Look at growth in many area's since Jags came. You could argue that it would have occurred anyway. I have been in Jax a long time and would not agree. Looking at just one industry the restaurant industry before Jags there was slim pickings other than fast food.Now lots of choices at all price ranges much less upscale choices which there was really none other than handful of local unknown spots. The worldwide exposure probably caused most of the extra growth because it tilted companies to make decisionsthey might not have made otherwise.

 

Found this after quick search. 

The Impact of Professional Sports Franchises on Local Economies http://digitalcommons.bryant.edu/cgi/vie...athematics

 

CONCLUSION All of the evidence that has been examined throughout this paper clearly shows that, by and large, professional sports franchises do not have a significant impact on their local economies. Many people do not realize this because they get caught up in the emotion and excitement of having a professional sports franchise to cheer for in their own town. They also do not realize all of the costs that are required to run a franchise. A sports team is like any other company in terms of its economic impact, and a single company is not going to swing the entire economy one way or the other. Since the modern trend in sports today is publicly financing stadiums, it is especially important for the average citizen to be aware of the impact that a new stadium could have on their city. Politicians and governments need to be held accountable and responsible when considering proposals for new stadiums, because often times the costs are underestimated. Do not get caught up in the hype of a new professional sports franchise or a new stadium. Voice concerns to local politicians and make sure that they are aware of all of the costs and benefits included in these types of projects. Sports are a wonderful thing that we all love, but like anything else, they are first and foremost a business.

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