FLORENCE, AL (WAFF) -
There's no question the University of North Alabama stimulates businesses in the Shoals, but a new study conducted by UNA shows its impact on the local economy is more than some people imagined.
It turns out close to $280-million is getting put back into the community every year.
"We really love the business UNA gives us. People from all over the state, all over the country, in fact, that come here stay with us to visit UNA," said Drew Richards.
Richards is the assistant general manager at the Hampton Inn and Suites in downtown Florence.
He said the university plays a significant role in their daily operations.
"Our business would not be what it is today without UNA, the university here in town," he said. "We definitely keep a very close relationship with UNA. We try to drive their business, and they drive our business."
Restaurants and shops in the downtown area and beyond are constantly stimulated by UNA community.
"We have them in everyday - everyday at lunch, all afternoon, they come in from studying," said Carla Pigg from Trowbridges.
"We're very fortunate to have the university as a partner here in the city," said Florence city councilman Dick Jordan. "I think [the study] reiterates what a great impact UNA has on the local economy."
University officials also said UNA's presence has also created just under 4500 jobs for the shoals community.
Copyright 2012 WAFF. All rights reserved.
A recent study from UNA shows the school impacts the Shoals economy pretty significantly.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 WorldNow and WAFF, a Raycom Media Station. 