SPORTS
Mets, merchants and municipalities
score big during spring training
Returning from the World Series for
the first time since 2000, the National
League Champion New York Mets are
back in Port St. Lucie for spring training.
Fans and local businesses are looking for a home
run derby, literally and economically.
St. Lucie County officials estimate $30 million
to $39 million is spent annually in the local
economy during Mets spring training in March.
“The Mets are a vital economic engine for our
community,” Terrisa Aronson, St. Lucie County
Chamber of Commerce president/CEO, says “It
is important for all residents to understand the
impact of the Mets on our quality of life. We are
lucky to have them as a community partner, and
others would love to have them, too. We are getting
a huge return on our investment.”
Through the voted-approved 5-cent bed tax,
the county spends around $3 million yearly for
maintenance at Tradition Field, receiving a 10-1
return on investment, according to the Tourism
Development Council.
But the impact to Port St. Lucie and the county
multiplies far beyond the month of March.
The 2009 Major League Baseball Florida spring
training study said New York City was the most
common origin of out-of-state attendees for
Grapefruit League teams.
“The New York Mets presence in St. Lucie
County has meant that we are front and center to >>
Missing from spring training at Tradition Field this year will be Michael Cuddyer. The starting right fielder, who in the final year of his $21 million contract,
decided to retire after 15 years in the major leagues.
Port St. Lucie Magazine 23