Tourism Isn't Just Someplace Else

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Published on July 26 2017 10:22 am
Last Updated on July 26 2017 10:22 am
Written by Greg Sapp

Tourism isn't just something to consider when you go on vacation.

The Illinois Office of Tourism says domestic and international travel expenditures reached $37.9 billion in 2016; a $571 million increase from 2015. This follows the state's record-breaking domestic Illinois tourism figures released in May, which highlighted an increase of one million travelers to the state in 2016.

Effingham County contributed to Illinois' robust economic domestic growth, to the tune of $158.23 million in travel expenditures (a 3.1% increase) and $3.22 million in local tax revenue (a 7.8% increase). Additionally, the tourism industry created 10,000 jobs across the state, with over 1,000 of them in Effingham County.

According to Jodi Thoele, Director of Tourism for the Effingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, Effingham has a lot to be proud of and has an exciting future ahead as work continues developing the region and impacting local communities. "Effingham tourism continues to thrive for many reasons but one main reason is due to our dedicated hospitality partners here in Effingham including our hotels, restaurants, attractions and the people behind them. We also have many enthusiastic meeting planners, festival and event coordinators and sporting event organizers bringing in fantastic events each year that help to highlight our city and bring in new visitors each year. It's wonderful to see everyone's dedication and hard work pay off with increased economic growth for our area," said Thoele.