Southeast Missouri State University student publication

Broadway is now open and will not affect business' revenue during homecoming

Monday, October 15, 2012
Jason Mungle, left, and Jeff Mungle, right, are members of the Burritoville staff. Photo by Nathan Hamilton

Director of Alumni Relations Jay Wolz said that the road work on Broadway and the downtown area should not affect local businesses during Southeast Missouri State University's homecoming, and many downtown businesses expect to see increased revenue.

Bill Holland, the executive director of the University Foundation, said an estimated 10,000 alumni attend one or more homecoming events throughout the weekend.

"Homecoming offers a great economic boost to the local economy as many alumni return to Cape Girardeau and stay in local hotels, eat in local restaurants and shop in the area," according to a statement from the university. "We welcome them back to the university and the community and invite them to explore new developments on campus and our evolving area."

The City of Cape Girardeau has organized the reconstruction of Broadway from its intersection with Main Street to its intersection with Pacific Street, which began in March. Concerns over the road work on Broadway and the downtown area are not necessary, Wolz said. The homecoming committee is using the road work to its advantage by showcasing it to returning alumni.

"With regard to the street work along Broadway and its possible impact on the homecoming parade, city officials and the contractors are confident the street will be open in time for the parade so people along the parade route will have a chance to see the redesigned Broadway on Saturday morning," Wolz said.

Nathan Mowery, the manager of Burritoville, said he doesn't feel the road work will affect Burritoville's business.

"We get a lot of walk-ins during homecoming anyway," Mowery said. "I don't think it's going to stop anyone from coming."

Local businesses like Burritoville that already cater to student clientele often see the most increase in sales during homecoming, according to Mowery.

Mowery said Burritoville usually sees at least a 10 percent increase in business during homecoming.

Burritoville opens early to serve breakfast on the weekend of homecoming.

Mowery said a usual day shift at Burritoville will have about $1,500 in sales, but during homecoming weekend the sales have been as high as $2,500. At night the sales have jumped from about $1,000 to $2,000 during past homecoming weekends. He said homecoming is one of their biggest revenue days of the year.

"As long as we have good weather, and even if we don't, we know the parade route will be lined with people, the tailgate areas will be packed, open houses and reunions will be well attended and Houck Stadium will be at or near capacity for the homecoming football game," Wolz said. "Some of our alumni return just for a day, but others will visit for several days. Local restaurants and hotels should stay busy before, during and after homecoming."

Comments