An impact study following the 2016 State Games of Mississippi in Meridian showed the Olympic-style event generated more than $9 million for the region’s economy.

The 25th State Games of Mississippi began in late May and continued throughout June in Meridian and nearby cities. 

State Games of Mississippi and City of Meridian officials revealed Wednesday morning at a news conference in City Hall that the State Games generated $9,350,210 for the area.

The study reported athletes spent an estimated $1,929,961, while spectators generated some $2,522,520. An economic multiplier of 2.1 was figured in. Without the multiplier, the total economic impact to the area was $4,452,481, according to the study.

The study said 5,541 athletes participated in the events. The study said athletes spent an average of $16.50 for meals that totaled $107.25 in meals over the course of the games. Expenses for all accommodations totaled $293,981. Total fuel expenses were $376,788. Shopping generated $664,920 for a total estimated expense of athletes of $1,929,961.

The study estimated 16,500 spectators spent an estimated $1,276,275 on meals, $420,420,00 on accommodations, $375,375 on gasoline and $450,450 on shopping. The total estimated expenses for spectators was $2,522,520.   

Weidmann’s proprietor Charles Frazier said those involved with the State Games added to the restaurant’s coffers.

“The State Games has certainly been good for our business,” Frazier said. “We do see a good increase for our business the whole month.”

The study, which is done every five years, was prepared by Dr. Habib Bazyari, professor emeritus at Mississippi State University.

“We started with 1,800 athletes in 12 sports. Now we have over 5,000 athletes in 35 sports,” State Games of Mississippi Executive Director Carolyn Smith said. “We’re very fortunate to have Meridian Community College work with us. We are not the Meridian Games as we do have other cities in the state to host the Games. We have sponsorships in other cities to assist with the games that are there.” 

The 2011 economic impact study reported the State Games generated $6.5 million 

Smith has been executive director for the last eight years and has been on the State Games Board since its inception.

Meridian Mayor Percy Bland said the festival is a boon to the city. The city is one of the major sponsors for the event.

“The State Games is probably our No. 1 income generator,” Bland said. “When it comes to the State Games, we will continue to be a big sponsor and supporter.”

“The economic impact over the last five years speaks volumes to the improvement and increases of activities this city receives through participation of the athletes from all over the state. All of us help to make this event what it is.”

State Games of Mississippi publicist Krilecia Gianakos said the community is behind the State Games’ success.

“I’m so pleased to announce the State Games keep growing and thriving,” Gianakos said. “The support of the community and sponsors is what will continue to allow the State Games to grow in our area.”

“We feel like it is a good, big event for Meridian and Lauderdale County,” Smith said. “We thank the City of Meridian, Lauderdale County, Visit Meridian, East Mississippi Business Development Corp., and all the businesses in Meridian. Without them, we don’t have the Games.”  

The 2017 State Games of Mississippi is scheduled for May 21-June 30. The Opening Ceremonies are scheduled for June 16.

The Meridian Star is among the Games’ gold sponsors.