Some local businesses believe that soccer games and events will impact their budgets.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Plans for a “stadium of the future” have local businesses pondering the future.
There may come a time when football games and events are held elsewhere while staff work at Everbank Stadium. For at least one year, games will be held in Orlando or Gainesville in 2027, if all goes according to plan.
Many small businesses in downtown and the surrounding area are expecting an increase in revenue based on what's happening at Everbank. Events like the Jaguars game, the Florida-Georgia weekend, and the Monster Truck Rally can make or break some local businesses' budgets.
Capacity will be reduced during stadium construction and the entire 2027 home schedule is expected to not be played in Jacksonville.
Gregory Stephen is the owner of a newly formed consulting firm and believes that local business owners need to be creative in order to make money.
“Aren't you going to the game? You don't have to. You can stream it. You can do it right here in the cigar lounge,” Stephen said.
But one boutique owner isn't too worried about whether the Jaguars will be out for at least a year. Laura Croft, owner of Edge City in Jacksonville's Five Points neighborhood, said there are many local events that help small businesses stay afloat.
“There are also other attractions in the area, like the Cummer Museum,” Croft said. “St. He also has people coming in groups from Augustine, so not all of the traffic is coming from the stadium.”
If 75% of NFL owners approve the stadium renovation contract, construction could begin in February 2025.
