Indianapolis braces for $400 million economic boost from NCAA Final Four INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A total of $400 million; that’s the expected economic impact for the upcoming NCAA men’s basketball Final Four in Indianapolis. Hotels on Monday said they’re already seeing a surge in reserv ations, with some already booked solid as fans from across the country make plans to be in Indianapolis. Zachary Lockett, director of sales and marketing at InterContinental Indianapolis by IHG, said Monday, “I would say today is the quiet before the storm. The kitchens are busy prepping, getting all the rooms ready for all the guests checking in for the long weekend.” Lockett says guests will start checking in Thursday, and they’re fully-booked through Tuesday. Hotel management has all-hands on deck and was adjusting its operations to prepare for the fast-paced weekend. “We still on game day, Saturday and Monday, will see the public come here to the rooftop bar Astrea, so there will be a lot of guests.” “We’re close to all the games, right off Monument Circle, of course, a couple short blocks away from the concerts. It’s so nice when there’s so much going on in different corners of downtown, to come be in a central location for that.” It’s not just hotels; businesses across downtown were also prepared for a high-volume weekend. Taylor Schaffer, president CEO of Downtown Indy Alliance, said Monday, “So thrilled to be able to have so many local businesses on display, so many local artists and creatives on display for what’s really a national and even international audience.” Businesses say the event is one of the biggest economic opportunities of the year, as downtown restaurants, shops and entertainment spots increase inventory and prepare for thousands of visitors. Schaffer said, “It’s incredible for these businesses. We see the ripple impacts not just here in the core of our entertainment district but throughout the downtown area as attendees want to go explore in their downtime. ...read more read less