Indy set to receive big economic boost during July 4 weekend

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Several hotels in the downtown Indianapolis area are sold out during the Independence holiday. JW Marriott reached full capacity by mid-June. Their management said guest are staying a few days longer compared to previous years.

“We are expecting a 55 percent bump in occupancy and we are booked up for six days straight,” said general manager Phil Ray. “It is usually quieter during the holiday week. All of the events happening this year have a lot to do with the increase.”

Indianapolis will be far from quiet on July 4. Local bars and restaurants say they are looking forward to the $5 to $6 million economic boost Visit Indy estimates will be generated.

“Around 5,000 people signed up to attend the Pokémon National Championship and Convention,” said Chris Gahl with Visit Indy. “More than 10,000 are listed to attend the Elks National Convention, too.”

More people means more patrol and police presence especially on the roads starting on Friday. AAA says the July 4 weekend is the busiest summer travel day of the year. They estimate 85 percent of people leaving for vacation will travel by car. They warn drivers to pay attention to the speed limit during their commute.