Downtown Savannah businesses react to SCAD Film Festival’s economic impact

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Local businesses reacted to the economic impact of the SCAD Film Festival over the past week.The Savannah Downtown Business Association Executive Director Mia Mance said the film festival is “economic development in action.” The impact reaches restaurants, retail, and other businesses on the main streets and side streets of downtown Savannah.Toren Anderson works with Rhino Hospitality Group, which represents a dozen local businesses, including Chive Sea Bar and Flying Monk Noodle Bar. The group said many people stop by to buy something and then go to find a spot at the red carpet.“We’ve seen great business, we love when the SCAD Film Festival comes to town,” Anderson said. “When in a market like this, can you literally grab dinner and then go stand and watch Keanu Reeves on the red carpet? It’s been pretty amazing.”Anderson said the group’s new hotel, The Keystone, was full throughout the week.This is a developing story. Tune into The News at 11 for more.