The Atlanta Braves’ new planned spring training complex in North Port will bring a significant economic windfall to the state, according to a new report. The Tampa Bay Business Journal reports the West Villages Improvement District, along with Sarasota County, the city of North Port and the Atlanta Braves, filed a grant application with the state of Florida asking for $20 million to help with facility construction costs. The economic impact study is part of that application process. The study estimates the new complex will have a $1.7 billion economic impact on the surrounding area over the length of its 30-year lease, factoring in new tourism, added jobs, and additional economic growth.
