Milwaukee bar owners hope for boost in sales as fans return to American Family Field

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- So how will fans inside American Family Field impact the local economy?

The Brewers say there will be no tailgating, and bars say that could actually improve their business before games.

Those bars are working on ways to get those fans to the stadium.

Fans are excited to return to Brewers games.

Workers at nearby bars like Dugout 54 say those fans are already calling, asking how they are preparing.

"It's been a very busy morning," said General Manager Dave Grycan. "In fact, I had to charge my phone twice, just because everyone's been blowing it up, like they're just ready to go."

Scott Schaeffer owns two Milwaukee Brat House locations and Jack's in Milwaukee.

He says the city called him Thursday to discuss his plans to shuttle fans from all three locations.

"We will provide as many shuttle buses as possible. We have a pretty large fleet as is, but I would imagine it will be every other row. We'll have to learn as we go, just like we have been this last year," he said. 

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett says the transportation situation is a work in progress on the city's side as well.

"We have approved one bar shuttle thus far. The Brewers indicate that they will only permit those approved by the health department to do shuttle service."

Barrett says he hopes tailgating will be allowed once Covid numbers start to improve. 

Until then, bar owners say they might be able to reap the benefits. 

"People don't want to just sit in their car waiting in the parking lot until the doors open, so yeah, they'll probably come out and have some food, have some beers."

The Brewers plan to contact season ticket holders about seating next week. 

They plan to release more information on individual game tickets later.