The Kansas City Chiefs training camp could arrive at just the right time for St. Joseph, some local leaders believe.

The 21-day camp that starts next year will offer an economic boost - when the city needs a jolt, said Mayor Ken Shearin.

"The Chiefs making St. Joe their summer home is a hometown pride point that is sorely needed during these times of economic hardship," he said at a media event Friday morning.

Two community members shared their experiences with NFL training camps. Kevin Harrison, general manager of the St. Joseph Menards, grew up near Platteville, Wis., which hosted the Bears training camp. The summer camp transformed his image of the city and the University of Wisconsin Platteville, he said.

He believes the Chiefs could have a similar impact here.

Mark Sheehan has traveled to River Falls, Wis., for Chiefs training camp the last 14 years. Over that span, he said he saw the town build a four-lane highway and add a number of chain hotels and restaurants.

"In the transformation of River Falls, its population grew. It has made a tremendous difference to River Falls and the university up there," Mr. Sheehan said.

The Chiefs camp also provides a needed boost in self-image for the city, Sen. Charlie Shields said. The city has lost its manufacturing icons such as Big Chief tablets at Mead, Quaker Oats and Stetson Hats.

"Because of the economy, those icons went away and the town needs an identiy," he said. "That identity will be the summer home of the Chiefs. It's hard to put a dollar figure on what that means to the community."

Mr. Shearin said he would like to have new billboards placed at every entry route into St. Joseph recognizing the Chiefs camp.

A groundbreaking ceremony for the training facility at Missouri Western State University will be held on Monday.

Susan Mires can be reached at susanm@npgco.com.