A new study released by Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch with the Indiana Destination Development Corporation shows the Indiana tourism industry’s growing momentum and continued positive impact on the local economy.
“Local tourism has continued to be a catalyst for economic growth at the county level,” said IDDC Secretary and CEO, Elaine Bedel. “As visitors explore our unique communities, they not only experience our genuine Hoosier hospitality, they also contribute significantly to the prosperity of the local businesses they visit. From quaint main streets to rich cultural attractions, local tourism enriches our communities and creates a sense of pride that ripples throughout the state.”
Visitor spending in Carroll County in 2022 was $23.4 million, up significantly from $6 million reported in 2013. The direct impact on the Carroll County economy resulted in a $3.4 million increase and supported a total of 181 jobs locally. Studies show that lodging, which was nearly non-existent in 2013, visitors spent only $251,000; 2022 data is $7.4 million. The second largest jump is in the food and beverage industry from $1.8 million to $6 million. The State and Local tax impact is $2.2 million.
Julia Leahy, Executive Director of the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism reports that over $150,000 has been invested in marketing efforts over the last nine years to continuously shine a positive light on the great communities and tourism assets in Carroll County. Economic Development Income Tax (EDIT) funds were “put to work” to drive visitors and local investment.
The study was commissioned by the Indiana Destination Development Corporation and conducted by Rockport Analytics, an independent market research and consulting company specializing in economic impact and feasibility studies for the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. The methodology employed by this study is in accordance with industry best practices and aligns economic impact data at the state and local levels with rigorous methodological standards that are recognized as the highest in the industry, according to a news release.
The study used data on Indiana visitor spending derived from multiple sources including Longwoods International, Reach Market Planning and the U.S. Commerce Department’s National Travel and Tourism Office. It was then reconciled with Bureau of Labor Statistics reported employment data, Indiana Department of Revenue reported tax receipts and secondary sources such as Smith Travel Research.
A link to the report can be found at VisitIndiana.com.
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