Solar eclipse could help Wyoming's economy

Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to travel to the Cowboy State to watch the solar eclipse on August 21st. While hotels in some areas are already booked, others are ready and willing to accommodate those who plan to travel.

CBS NewsChannel 5 spoke with the Wyoming Office of Tourism about preparation for the event. Although a major influx of out of state visitors is anticipated, Wyoming says they are prepared.

Tia Troy from the Wyoming Office of Tourism says the state has been named one of the best places to watch this year's solar eclipse. She said, "We have not had a total solar eclipse pass through our state over Wyoming since 1918." With the wide open spaces, epic landscapes and historically clear August skies, Troy says Wyoming will be one of the best locations to view the marvel.

With a thousands of visitors, the state is anticipating many of them to use hotels, gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, buy souvenirs from local shops and help boost the state's economy. Troy said, "The travel and tourism industry is the second largest industry in the state of Wyoming." She added, "This is a great shot in the arm for our economy."

Even if visitors and Wyoming residents are not in the 365 mile path of totality, Troy says you can still be anywhere in the state and still see a partial eclipse. She says all communities in the state will benefit.

For several months, state, federal and regional agencies have been planning and working closely together to prepare for this great event according to Troy. She added, "Wyoming is ready, prepared and planning on welcoming all of our visitors with open arms."