Arena's immediate economic impact

DOWNTOWN TOLEDO - It's been just about a month and downtown businesses have felt an economic surge since the Lucas County Arena opened its doors for a myriad of events.

A mix of concerts, Walleye hockey, pro wrestling and comedian Jeff Dunham have been sold out at the new arena. The crowd attraction to the new Glass City gem has created a ripple effect in profits at PizzaPapalis, The Blarney, Sidelines and Frickers, to name a few.

Several months ago, Sidelines, located on Huron Street across the street from the arena, was just another bar downtown. In nearly four weeks time, bar patronage has rocketed skyward.

"It wasn't very good," said Sidelines employee Rachael Schmidt. "Every now and then when something was going on down here we would have a big hit, but usually business was not very good.

Since Chris Daughtry's special Halloween trip to Toledo, orders have been non-stop and tips have been plentiful at Sidelines.

"I went from making $11 on Saturday night to $250 on Saturday nights, so it's definitely changed a lot," Schmidt said. "We know if there's 8,000 across the street, 10-percent are going to come over here and eat, so that's good."

Businesses a block or two away from the new arena have seen a boost in customers since it opened for a free preview Oct. 3-4. With the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus in town for the weekend, upcoming events are expected to draw thousands of people to downtown's businesses.

"The Trans-Siberia Orchestra was probably our biggest hour that we've actually ever had," said Christopher Kline, owner of PizzaPapalis Taverna, located on the corner of Huron and Monroe next to Fifth Third Field.

Kline said some patrons have found a new way to beat the arena rush.

"People have learned how to actually come in earlier in the evening to make it an event come out for pizza, then go to the arena," he said.

Although there are still a few empty buildings up for sale surrounding the area due to the global recession, new businesses are making their way into Downtown Toledo and causing a little competition.

"There's a lot of new bars, so a lot of people want to check out the new places," Schmidt said. "But we have a prime location. We're right across the street."

Sidelines owners said it will extend hours to accommodate its customers.