The state of Louisiana will pay Tom Benson’s estate $10 million a year through 2028 to keep his grave in New Orleans, according to a contract approved by state officials.
The agreement guarantees fans can pay homage to the late billionaire at his resting place for a full decade in the same city where Benson built a sports empire with the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans.
If, at the end of the 10 years, the state doesn’t renew the contract, Benson’s estate has the option to relocate his remains. Early indications are they’re already eyeing San Antonio, TX, as a potential future home for Benson’s grave.
Benson’s longtime spokesman Greg Bensel called the deal a “win-win” for the community and Benson’s legacy.
The taxpayer funds will be used to add concessions options, a Saints/Pelicans team store, dozens of seats, club lounges, and three box suites at the gravesite in Metairie Cemetery.
“Our agreement will lead to improvements that will make facilities at the gravesite state-of-the-art, viable, and attractive for tens of thousands of admirers from around the world seeking to pay their respects, which will provide unquestionable economic impact,” Bensel explained.
The taxpayer funds will be used to add concessions options, a Saints/Pelicans team store, dozens of seats, club lounges, and three box suites at the gravesite in Metairie Cemetery, Bensel explained.
In a related matter, Benson’s estate has sold the naming rights to Benson’s tombstone to VooDoo BBQ & Grill for an additional $2 million per year.
“We also had an attractive offer from Tombstone Pizza, but ultimately, we decided to ink the deal with VooDoo since they’re a local business,” Bensel said.