WYRZ.org 98.9 WYRZ – The Voice of Hendricks County
Indianapolis, Ind. – With all 2020 threw at the tourism industry, including 50% less spending by travelers, Indiana tourism still generated more than $6 billion for Hoosier communities (sources: Rockport Analytics/Tourism Economics). If supported and funded by state legislators, Indiana’s destinations and attractions can do more, employ more and provide more.
In a video, the Indiana Tourism Association (ITA) provides a glimpse at the people who hold the potential for an additional $6.6 billion infusion to Indiana’s economy. The video also speaks directly to Indiana policy makers with a call to action to fund Indiana’s tourism industry. The research is clear. The best way to support Indiana communities for future economic recovery is to invest in Indiana tourism and the Hoosiers who work in the industry.
“We know the next family vacation is more likely to be a road trip,” explains Jamie Bohler Smith, president of ITA and Visit Hendricks County executive director, referencing a recent study that revealed 73% of travelers will do so by car (source: MMGY Travel Intelligence). “From Fort Wayne to Evansville, we are ready to optimize the opportunity for Indiana communities and regain financial ground lost in 2020.”
As the 2021 General Assembly session convenes, ITA urges Indiana legislators to leverage changing travel habits to boost Indiana communities by aggressively funding Indiana tourism. The investment is the clearest path to reclaim local community tax revenues. Further, it can be an immediate relief to state joblessness given the Indiana tourism industry accounts for 37% of all jobs lost in Indiana from March through June 2020 (source: Rockport Analytics).
To help now, travelers can plan their own Indiana road trip. Destinations, businesses and Hoosiers interested in staying up to date on tourism industry research, data and advocacy resources can go to the ITA website and follow the ITA Facebook page.
“As families hop in their cars to travel, we want them to choose Indiana,” says Bohler Smith, “For that to happen, families need to know everything Indiana has to offer. “
The Indiana Tourism Association’s mission is advocating the value of tourism in Indiana and supporting the best practices of its members. Established in 1980, the association partners with the Indiana Destination Development Corporation, Indiana Restaurant and Lodging Association and other statewide associations to support tourism investment and promotion as an economic contributor to the state.
The Hendricks County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Inc., d/b/a Visit Hendricks County attracts visitors to the county by promoting and developing tourism, which stimulates economic growth and enhances quality of life. For more information, visit our website at VisitHendricksCounty.com or call (317) 718-8750.
