Visit Champaign County (formerly the Champaign County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau) held their second annual Toast to Tourism event on Wednesday, May 7th at the Spurlock Museum. The event features an overview of the impact of tourism on the local economy and recognizes community members with Tourism Impact Awards. A new VCC promotional video was also premiered at the event and can be seen at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=37Ic5GdqZrY
The City of Champaign is a Founding Partner and largest contributor to Visit Champaign County. City representation on the VCC Board of Directors include Assistant Planning and Development Director, Rob Kowalski and Councilmember Marci Dodds. The City provides not only financial support but much in-kind support in the planning and facilitation of community events for the VCC that benefit the community and local economy.
A few fun facts on the impact of tourism in Champaign County….. Tourism creates 2,500 jobs and $4.96 million in local tax revenue. Tourism also resulted in $298.5 million in direct spending last year which is an increase of 5.5% from FY2012.
For more information about the City’s involvement with Visit Champaign County contact Rob Kowalski in the Planning and Development Department at [email protected].