America's Cup boosts local economy

NEWPORT, R.I. (WPRI) – The America’s Cup World Series race brought thousands of people to Newport over the past week, and area establishments saw an uptick in business.

Many businesses were grateful for the rise in income, but say the crowds were not as large as expected.

The manager at the “Pleasant Surprise” gift store tells us they recruited extra staff in anticipation of the race, but says they were not always needed.

The America’s Cup Inn said that the majority of their rooms were actually filled with Cup sponsors.

"Things are going well, we've had a good week," said David Stamfield, the inn's manager.

Last week, the event's executive director said the attendance was less than anticipated because there were less days of racing then originally planned.

The state has hired a firm from Maine to study the event’s overall economic impact.