How U.S. Travel Association and Visit Raleigh Showcase Tourism’s Role in Regional Economic Growth
On October 24, the U.S. Travel Association gathered with Congresswoman Deborah Ross, representatives from Visit Raleigh, and local business leaders for an impactful “Travel Works for America” Power Hour at Raleigh-Durham International Airport. This collaborative event spotlighted the vital role that travel and tourism play in boosting the region’s economy, supporting the workforce, and enhancing business opportunities.
The discussion underscored travel’s far-reaching impact across sectors in Raleigh and the surrounding areas, emphasizing its role in sustaining local businesses, creating jobs, and enriching North Carolina’s economic landscape. Congresswoman Ross highlighted the significance of supporting policies that strengthen the travel industry, acknowledging it as an essential driver of job growth and economic vitality.
Visit Raleigh representatives shared insights into how tourism promotes regional development, drawing millions of visitors to the area each year, which in turn fuels hospitality, retail, transportation, and other service sectors. Leaders discussed how, from small local establishments to larger enterprises, Raleigh’s economy depends on a robust and resilient travel industry.
The event also featured perspectives from local business owners who shared real-world impacts, illustrating how increased travel and tourism directly translate into sustainable employment and economic growth for their operations. Raleigh-Durham International Airport plays a pivotal role in facilitating this growth, welcoming travelers from across the globe and connecting the region to vital markets.
The “Travel Works for America” initiative, spearheaded by the U.S. Travel Association, continues to advocate for legislative support, aiming to ensure the travel industry remains a cornerstone of economic resilience. As the discussion closed, attendees reflected on the power of partnership and policy to strengthen Raleigh’s standing as a premier travel destination, supporting local economies and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
This event served as a reminder of travel’s essential role in driving both local prosperity and nationwide economic health.
“Joining Congresswoman Ross, Visit Raleigh and other local leaders was a great opportunity to showcase travel’s impact on the Raleigh region,” said Tori Emerson Barnes, U.S. Travel’s Executive Vice President for Public Affairs and Policy. “We are eager to continue our work with Congresswoman Ross to expand travel to her district and across the nation.”
“Wake County is a destination for innovation, sports, art, culture, and award-winning cuisine. But, travel is about more than just visiting new places; it’s also about forging local connections and supporting business in our communities,” said Congresswoman Ross. “Wake County experienced a significant boost in tourism last year, and we must match this growth with adequate funding for transportation, infrastructure, housing, and more. In Congress, I will continue fighting for policies that will encourage safe and easy travel to and from North Carolina, and I am grateful for the partnership of the U.S. Travel Association.”
“Our meeting with Congresswoman Ross, a dedicated advocate for tourism in Raleigh, along with U.S. Travel, provided an invaluable opportunity to engage in a meaningful discussion on both the challenges and opportunities facing our industry both locally and nationally,” said Dennis Edwards, President & CEO of Visit Raleigh. “Tourism plays a vital role in Raleigh and Wake County’s economy, with visitors spending over $3.2 billion, generating $307 million in tax revenue and supporting 25,796 jobs in 2023.”
In 2022, North Carolina’s travel spending soared to $32.4 billion, creating over 200,000 jobs across the state. Nationwide, the travel industry’s contributions reached unprecedented levels in 2023, generating $2.8 trillion in economic output and supporting 15 million American workers. Travel not only fuels local economies but also strengthens industries nationwide by connecting people, places, and fostering growth across nearly every business sector.
During the recent “Power Hour” session, key topics central to the future of U.S. travel were discussed, including ongoing hurricane relief efforts in Western North Carolina and preparations for a decade filled with major sporting events arriving in the U.S. Attendees also highlighted the pressing need to reduce the 260-day average wait time for first-time visitor visa applicants in critical inbound markets. Reducing traveler wait times at U.S. Customs, especially in gateway airports, and expanding the H-2B worker visa program to support seasonal and small businesses were among the essential priorities.
Additionally, participants discussed the importance of funding for non-hub airports in high-growth areas, enabling them to meet rising traveler demand and further support regional economic expansion. This agenda reflects the travel industry’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure, reducing barriers for international visitors, and ensuring that local businesses in high-growth areas can thrive.
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