I-40 Closure could mean big bucks for local businesses

More than 50,000 cars and trucks a day pass through Johnson City on I-26. The closure of a portion of I-40 could mean a large financial windfall for those who do business along I-26.

The Johnson City Convention & Visitor’s Bureau recently started a website and ad campaign to get the word out to I-40 travelers. The bureau estimates that if the average driver stops and spends just $20.00 it could lead to an almost 48 million dollar boost to the local economy when its all said and done.

Many businesses along I-26 have reported an upswing in business with most hotels reporting an additional 10 to 15 rooms a day.

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