Critics concerned SF taxpayers will pay Super Bowl cost overruns

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- There are numerous symbols of Super Bowl 50 as San Francisco prepares for the festivities, including a free village for fans. But all the hoopla comes at a price for city taxpayers.

For example, on Monday, Muni's anticipated costs jumped from an estimated $1.7 million to $2.3 million.

Some critics are worried that the San Francisco will suffer financially from hosting the Super Bowl, just as it did with the America's Cup where the promise of a big economic payoff fizzled.

Many critics say not one cent of taxpayer money should be involved.

"I've been getting hundreds of emails and calls from constituents saying we expect you to spend public taxpayer dollars on affordable housing, homeless services, street cleaning and Muni, not a party for the wealthiest people in the world," said San Francisco City Supervisor, Jane Kim.

City lawmakers held a hearing on Monday to get the facts and figures.

Supervisor says the Super Bowl Host Committee and the NFL should pick up the tab, but Daniel Lurie, the head of the committee, is confident the city will make money.

"Taxpayers will net out particularly on this deal. In the end, more revenue will come in to the city than is going out. I think the argument will be how could we not do an event like this," said Lurie.

According to the mayor's budget director, last year, Phoenix enjoyed an overall economic benefit from the Super Bowl $719.4 million. New Orleans got $480 million in 2013. And Indianapolis, the host in 2012, got almost $278 million from the event.

The Super Bowl 50 Host Committee is pledging $500,000 if San Francisco's costs soar above $4 million.

With Muni's estimated increase, it's already over that threshold.

Get the latest on Super Bowl 50 by clicking here.