SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Jefferson Clinton officials say cab drivers have ultimately helped attract people to both the hotel and to the downtown area. That's why Tuesday is being called "Taxi Appreciation Day."

From 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. cab drivers in Syracuse have been invited to get a free lunch and refreshments at the hotel. Representatives from Mayor Driscoll's office will also be on hand to recognize drivers as the "gatekeepers of the city."

"We're working with the mayor's office. The mayor will issue a proclamation proclaiming Taxi Appreciation Day. And, we recognize here at the Jefferson Clinton Hotel, we recognize the work our local cab drivers do as ambassadors to the city if you will," said the hotel's Irving Lyons Jr.

Drivers we spoke to at the South Salina Street hub are appreciative of the acknowledgement.

Hotel officials say they hope to do this every year.