Carter Hendricks’ Post

The South Western Kentucky region enjoyed another stellar year for tourism and visitor spending with Christian County leading the way as the state's #9 most visited county based on tourism receipts. With nearly $240M in tourism spending, Christian County's tourism economy helped fuel record receipts for hotels, restaurants, and small businesses that serve visitors and tourists. "We applaud the Cadiz-Trigg County Tourism Commission, Hopkinsville-Christian County Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Oak Grove Tourism Commission, as well as our regional partners, for their hard work establishing the entire SWK region as a great place to visit, recreate, and relax. From family festivals to fun at the lake, our region has your recreation and relaxation needs covered," stated Carter Hendricks, SWK EDC. This most recent data continues a trend of positive news for South Western Kentucky with recent positive economic indicators including: 1. Christian County ranked among state leaders for new business permits (2023). 2. Hopkinsville surpassed $1B in equivalent payroll (2023). 3. Elkton ranked as Kentucky's 3rd fastest growing city (2020-2023). 4. Cadiz ranked as Kentucky's 6th fastest growing city (2020-2023). 5. Land Between the Lakes/Lake Barkley remain one of the state's top tourism attractions with over 2 million annual visitors. The region continues to offer incredible investment opportunities with build-ready development sites mitigating risk and saving money in the region's less taxing, more relaxing environment. Call 270-885-1499 or visit www.southwesternky.com to learn more about our region's recent news and opportunities! #comegrowwithus #thinkkentucky #fortcampbell #lesstaxingmorerelaxing #visitSWK Amy Rogers Oak Grove Tourism Commission City of Hopkinsville Christian County Chamber of Commerce TRIGG COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Bill Stevens Sharon Butts

Proud to share some fantastic news: Tourism along the Great Miami Riverway generated $1.2 billion in economic impact during 2023, according to a comprehensive study by Tourism Economics! The analysis reveals impressive growth and sustainable economic development across our region: $710 million in direct visitor spending ($1.9 million spent daily) 10,930 jobs supported (1 in every 17 jobs in the region) $321 million in labor income $140 million in tax revenues 12.2% growth above pre-pandemic levels This success story reflects the power of regional collaboration. Montgomery County led with 64.4% of tourism sales, while Hamilton and Shelby counties showed remarkable growth at 11.4% and 7.1% respectively. The impact spans multiple sectors including outdoor recreation, hospitality, retail, and cultural attractions. Special thanks to the Miami Conservancy District whose flood protection infrastructure helps create a resilient environment that supports year-round tourism and economic growth. Most importantly, thank you to our Riverway Coalition partners, and the millions of visitors who are discovering what makes the Great Miami Riverway special. Together, we're building a premier destination for outdoor recreation and authentic experiences in Ohio. #Tourism #EconomicDevelopment #OhioBusiness #OutdoorRecreation #CommunityDevelopment #TourismEconomics #Placemaking

Tourism continues to be a pivotal driver of Washoe County's economic growth. In 2022, the region saw a 10% increase in visitor spending compared to the previous year. Additionally, sectors like lodging, recreation, retail, and food & beverage remain vital contributors to Washoe County's economic landscape. As Washoe County continues to attract visitors with its diverse offerings and attractions, tourism's ongoing expansion signifies its crucial role in sustaining and advancing the region's economy. Visit Nevada Tomorrow for more information. 🏙️🎰 [LINK] https://brnw.ch/21wKRPE

Westmoreland commissioners Thursday allocated more than $1.7 million to promote and enhance tourism, with a primary focus on the county park system. Commissioners signed off on the 2025 tourism plan that is funded through 40% of the county’s hotel tax. The tourism plan this year focuses almost exclusively on Westmoreland’s 12 parks through refurbishments, repairs and general maintenance work at the more than 4,100-acre system. “Our parks are hidden gems within the county for our residents to go and utilize, so we want to reinvest,” said Commissioner Sean Kertes. https://lnkd.in/eEYxq9QW

For those wondering if travel to Los Angeles is still viable during this time, my clients at Visit California have been working tirelessly to ensure that the 224,000 tourism-related jobs in LA are not jeopardized as the city tries to re-build. LA is open for business and it needs our tourism dollars more than ever. Here is more information on how to spend your tourism dollars in Los Angeles to help with recovery efforts: https://lnkd.in/g-Tiz4m6 https://lnkd.in/gNU9rrSJ #visitcalifornia #visitlosangeles

A Game Changing Approach to Tourism Marketing in the Columbia Valley Stunning scenery, unique outdoor adventures and friendly smiles abound in the Columbia Valley, making tourism a major economic generator for the communities of Radium Hot Springs, Panorama, Invermere, Windemere and Fairmont Hot Springs and area. For many years, tourism marketing in the Valley was done by independent organizations and private tourism businesses. Faced with an increasingly competitive environment, diverse tourism stakeholders saw the potential to attract more visitors to the region for longer stays in all seasons. Establishing a Destination Management Organization (DMO) created a way to bring hotels, restaurants, retailers, and attraction operators together to market a region with a broader scope. DMOs also administer the Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT), which creates revenues for local tourism marketing, programs, and events. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gxUDiBUv #StrongEconomy #StrongerCommunities #ETSIBC

Visit California continues to witness the wildfire impacts in Los Angeles and the incredible resilience of its communities and tourism industry. With over 224,000 tourism-related jobs — one out of five in California — located in Los Angeles County, tourism is vital to the region’s economy and recovery efforts. Los Angeles is open for business. From world-class hotels and theme parks to iconic landmarks and clear blue skies over its beaches, the region is ready to welcome travelers. Tourism is key to revitalizing the economy and supporting livelihoods. Visit California is collaborating with local leaders and amplifying the message globally: Southern California is resilient, vibrant and ready to shine. Read the full update from President & CEO Caroline Beteta: https://lnkd.in/ge6rM45A

🌲🏙️ Explore the potential of tourism to boost Portland's economy in our latest feature on Portland News! Discover how tourism impacts local businesses, stimulates economic growth, and promotes cultural exchange in the city. Whether you're a business owner, policymaker, or community advocate, this article offers insights into leveraging tourism as a catalyst for prosperity and development. Dive into the full story to understand the role of tourism in shaping Portland's economic future! #PortlandEconomy #TourismImpact #LocalBusinesses #EconomicDevelopment #CommunityProsperity https://lnkd.in/d4DeQQWp

Tourism does more than attract visitors—it generates revenue, supports local businesses, creates jobs, and enhances the quality of life in communities. Tourism IS Economic Development! 🌍💼 In this month’s Camoin Associates Navigator, I explore how tourism drives economic growth and complements efforts to build vibrant, thriving regions for residents, workers, and businesses alike. Want to see how 🏙️ like Richmond, Greenville, and Nashville are using tourism to fuel economic growth? Check out the full article here: https://lnkd.in/ew98an3r Share your thoughts 👇: How does your region connect tourism and economic development? #TourismIsEconomicDevelopment #Tourism #EconomicDevelopment #CommunityGrowth #NavigatorInsights