The American Travel Association, Congresswoman Deborah Ross, representatives from the Raleigh Tourism Board, and local business leaders convened at Raleigh-Durham International Airport for a pivotal “Tourism for America” event. This gathering underscored the vital role that travel and tourism play in enhancing the region’s economy, supporting the workforce, and expanding business opportunities.
The discussions revealed the extensive influence of tourism on the lives of Raleigh residents and the broader community, emphasizing its significance in sustaining local businesses, creating jobs, and enriching North Carolina’s economic landscape. Congresswoman Ross articulated the necessity of supporting policies that bolster tourism, highlighting its critical role as a driver of job growth and economic vitality.
Raleigh Tourism representatives detailed how tourism attracts millions of visitors annually, fueling the development of hospitality, retail, transportation, and various service industries. The leaders acknowledged that Raleigh’s economy is heavily dependent on a robust and resilient tourism sector, benefiting both small local enterprises and larger corporations alike.
Local business owners shared their experiences, illustrating how the growth of travel and tourism translates into sustainable employment and economic progress. Raleigh-Durham International Airport serves as a key facilitator of this growth, welcoming travelers from around the globe and connecting the region to essential markets.
The “Travel for America” initiative, spearheaded by the American Travel Association, continues to advocate for legislative support to ensure that tourism remains a cornerstone of economic recovery. Participants reflected on the power of partnerships and policies to enhance Raleigh’s status as a premier tourist destination, bolster the local economy, and improve residents’ quality of life.
“This event with Congressman Ross, Raleigh Tourism, and local leaders was a valuable opportunity to showcase tourism’s impact on the Raleigh area,” stated Tori Emerson Barnes, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy at the American Travel Association.
Congresswoman Ross added, “Wake County is a hub for innovation, sports, arts, culture, and award-winning cuisine. Traveling is not just about visiting new places; it’s about fostering local connections and supporting community businesses. Wake County experienced significant tourism growth last year, and we must secure adequate funding for transportation, infrastructure, housing, and more to keep pace with that growth. I will continue to advocate for policies that promote safe and convenient travel to and from North Carolina, and I appreciate the collaboration with the American Travel Association.”
Dennis Edwards, President and CEO of the Raleigh Tourism Board, remarked, “Our meeting with Congressman Ross, a steadfast advocate for Raleigh’s tourism industry, allowed us to engage in meaningful discussions about the challenges and opportunities facing our industry, both locally and nationally. Tourism is crucial for the economies of Raleigh and Wake counties, with visitors spending over $320 million, generating $30.7 billion in tax revenue, and supporting nearly 26,000 jobs in 2023.”
In 2022, North Carolina’s tourism spending reached $3.24 billion, creating more than 200,000 jobs statewide. Nationally, tourism’s economic contribution soared to unprecedented levels in 2023, generating $2.8 trillion and supporting 150,000 jobs. This sector not only stimulates local economies but also strengthens the national industry by connecting people and promoting growth across various business sectors.
During the recent “Power Hour” conference, participants discussed key issues impacting the future of U.S. travel, including ongoing hurricane relief efforts in western North Carolina and preparations for major sporting events slated for the next decade. They emphasized the urgent need to reduce the average 260-day wait time for first-time visitor visa applicants from key markets, streamline processing times at U.S. Customs, particularly at gateway airports, and expand the H-2B worker visa program to support seasonal and small businesses.
Additionally, attendees addressed the necessity of funding non-hub airports in high-growth regions to meet rising passenger demand and further bolster regional economic expansion. This agenda reflects the tourism industry’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure, lowering barriers for international visitors, and ensuring that local businesses in fast-growing areas can thrive.