Detroit is set to host the NFL draft, showcasing the city’s progress and potential after bouncing back from bankruptcy in 2013. With iconic installations like the DETROIT letters and the renovated Michigan Central Station, the city is ready to welcome fans and visitors for the three-day event. The draft, which is expected to attract over 50 million viewers and 400,000 visitors, offers an opportunity to change the conversation surrounding Detroit and highlight its resurgence.
The Lions, in collaboration with the Detroit Sports Commission, Visit Detroit, and other local partners, worked to bring the draft to the city, aiming to showcase Detroit in a new light and dispel old stereotypes. The NFL’s decision to rotate the draft among different cities has provided a chance for locations like Detroit to host a major event with significant economic impact. Past hosts like Chicago and Kansas City saw substantial benefits from hosting the draft, and Detroit is expected to generate at least $160 million in revenue from the event.
Local businesses are looking forward to the influx of visitors during the draft, with small businesses in and around Campus Martius Park expected to receive a boost. One historical establishment, Hot Sam’s, will be represented on stage during the draft, highlighting the city’s unique offerings and dispelling misconceptions about Detroit. While challenges remain, such as ongoing efforts to demolish abandoned houses and reduce crime rates, the city is making progress towards a brighter future.
Security measures for the draft will be stringent, with hundreds of law enforcement officers from various agencies patrolling the downtown area. Mayor Mike Duggan emphasized the importance of the draft in showcasing Detroit’s transformation and reintroducing the city to a larger audience. The event is seen as an opportunity to highlight Detroit’s rich history, vibrant culture, and ongoing revitalization efforts to a national audience.
With Detroit’s draft set to bring in significant revenue and promote local businesses, the city is poised to take center stage in the NFL world. As the draft kicks off, Detroit aims to impress visitors with its unique attractions, diverse offerings, and welcoming atmosphere. The event represents a culmination of years of progress and a chance for Detroit to shine on a national stage, proving that the Motor City is back and ready to thrive.
