NFL Lockout Could Be Devastating For Denver

DENVER (CBS4)- Talks continue between the NFL and the players' union as a 7-day extension is reached on the collective bargaining agreement. The sides have until next Friday, March 11, to work on a new deal. Talks will resume Monday.

If no agreement is reached, the Denver Broncos franchise has a plan to reimburse season ticket holders. They will receive a full refund for any canceled games and a refund for parking, too. The refunds will be processed within 30 days of knowing exactly how many home games there will be.

Season ticket holders have a choice to receive the refund in the form paid for the tickets, such as check or credit card, or ticket holders can leave credits on their account for next season.

One vendor who has a food cart off Federal, banks on Broncos fan business. With the possibility of a lockout, his outlook looks grim.

"Maybe go out of business," said vendor Enrique Juarez.

Regular home games bring in steady cash to businesses around Invesco Field at Mile High. Eight home games mean eight Sundays of fans filling up nearby gas stations and spending money at sports apparel stores.

Hotels near the stadium are nearly always full on game days, with Broncos fans traveling from New Mexico, Nebraska, Wyoming and Utah.

No football means no watch parties, which would hit grocery stores, liquor stores, corner stores and pizza delivery businesses.

"It would be devastating to us to not have football," said Wyman's Bar General Manager Matt Alessio.

The bar at 13th and Vine isn't a Broncos hangout, but one for Chicago Bears fans. He estimates 20 percent of his annual revenue is made on football Sundays.

"I fell strongly that they will do what it takes to make it happen. I hope fast," said Alessio.

Business inside the stadium would also be impacted by a lockout, including food and drink vendors, and also everyone who works at Invesco Field at Mile High.

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