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Long Island isn’t just hosting a golf tournament this week — it’s hosting the world.
And the Ryder Cup’s arrival at Bethpage Black means big bucks for the region.
A new study from the Long Island Association estimates the week-long international event will pump $160 million into the economies of Nassau and Suffolk counties. It also projects about 1,000 new jobs, from shuttle drivers to food vendors to security.
“The Ryder Cup economic impact goes well beyond the initial spend by the PGA of America, sponsors, and visitors,” said Dr. Steve Kent, chief economist of the LIA Research Institute. “It creates a ripple effect through Nassau and Suffolk counties.”
Local businesses gear up
Restaurants and bars near the course are bracing for their busiest week of the year.
“We’re one of the closest bars to the course, and right near the Farmingdale train station,” said Kim Goetchius, manager of Croxley’s Ale House in Farmingdale. “The bar is stocked and we’re fully staffed. We’re hoping for a great outcome.”
Tap Room is also getting in the spirit. “We are setting up a golf simulator in the back parking lot,” said General Manager Jeanine Wallace. “We have food specials for the week, great deals on Tito’s Vodka and Michelob Ultra.”
The big stage
About 50,000 fans are expected at Bethpage Black each day from Tuesday, Sept. 23, through Sunday, Sept. 28.
This is the first time the prestigious tournament has ever been held on Long Island.
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Bethpage Black was also just named the third hardest Ryder Cup course of all time by Hard Rock Bet, trailing only Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina and Whistling Straits in Wisconsin.
Courses were judged on factors including length, slope rating, rainfall and wind speeds.
