Tourism Makes Major Economic Impact in Virginia’s Blue Ridge

Tourism proved to be a major part of the Virginia’s Blue Ridge regional economy during 2011. Tourism revenue for Virginia’s Blue Ridge (includes the cities of Roanoke and Salem and the counties of Roanoke, Botetourt and Franklin) reached $703,610,000, an 8.2% increase over 2010.  Local tourism-supported jobs totaled 7,160 while state and local tourism-related tax collections were $50,940,000.

"Tourism is BIG business and we’re pleased to see healthy growth in this region, especially as we market our new brand, Virginia’s Blue Ridge," said Landon Howard, President of the Roanoke Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau.  Howard went on to say, "the real credit goes to the region’s tourism industry and their commitment to working together to offer an excellent visitor experience."

Source: United States Travel Association and Virginia Tourism Corporation