TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) - According to the City, more than 2.35 million visitors from 47 different states and 36 countries generated $863 million, leading Leon County to its seventh consecutive year of tourism growth.
The city said that Leon County tourism continued a pattern of success in Florida’s Capital County as it reaches new heights in 2016. They said that tourism accounts for more than 14,100 jobs in the county.
“In Leon County, our tourism industry is committed to excellence--and its proven by the seven years of growth in a row,” said Leon County Commission Chairman Bill Proctor. “Atop that track record, we anticipate more success in the coming year as we embrace new opportunities in the tourism industry.”
Kerri Post, Director of the Leon County Division of Tourism Development, announced the year-end results and unveiled future plans to local tourism industry members during the annual Marketing Rollout on September 22 at the newly opened Champions Club at Florida State University’s Doak Campbell Stadium.
Highlights of the 2015/2016 fiscal year include:
• Tourist Development Tax (TDT or bed tax) collections through the first 11 months of the fiscal year (at $4.76 million) currently track ahead of last year’s 12-month record of $5.14 million
• Hotel occupancy for the previous 12 months through August is 61.8%, ahead of the previous record year
• Leon County hosted 99 youth and adult sporting events, attracting more than 73,000 visitors and resulting in an economic benefit of $31.6 million in direct spending
• $17.5 million in visitor spending was generated by meetings and leisure groups
• 92% of area visitors are likely to return to Leon County, according to an independent research study
“These numbers are proof that Leon County’s investments in tourism strengthens our economy and enriches the quality of life for our citizens and visitors alike,” said County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “We are proud of the record year and sustained growth as Leon County Tourism continues to reach new heights.
The county collects a 5% bed tax from hotels and short-term lodging establishments which fund all tourism promotions and other tourism-related activities.
The Leon County Division of Tourism is focused on “new heights” and used that theme for its presentation to industry members. Tourism officials introduced the 2017 Visitor Guide and future advertising plans that include expanded online programs with video components. The county’s tourism division also will revamp its award-winning Trailahassee.com website, incorporating new GPS mapping technology and other personalized features for trail users.
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