SOUTH CENTRAL TENNESSEE TOURISM ASSOCIATION'S ECONOMIC IMPACT REACHES ALL-TIME HIGH OF $517 MILLION Lewis County Generated $4.68 Million

South Central Tennessee Tourism Association, made up of 13 counties, including Lewis, generated more than $517 million in direct visitor spending and saw 3.6 million visitors to the region in 2023. The 2023 Economic Impact of Travel on Tennessee report was released by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development.

"Tourism in South Central Tennessee is on a remarkable upward trajectory, fueling both economic growth and community development," SCTTA Executive Director Ryan French said. "This progress is a testament to the strong partnerships we've cultivated across the region and the invaluable role these relationships play in enhancing local resources and strategies."

Specific to Lewis County, the same report reveals $4.68M in domestic visitor spending generated. TDTD released the new data just ahead of the industry's annual Governor's Conference in Chattanooga.

Statewide, Tennessee tourism generated $30.6 billion in direct visitor spending and saw 144 million visitors to the state in 2023. Tax dollars generated by tourism support important public services like education, health and safety.

"This record growth is a testament to the strength, resilience, determination and efforts of our hard-working industry in bringing visitors to enjoy why Tennessee Sounds Perfect," Mark Ezell, commissioner, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, said.

BY THE NUMBERS:

· Lewis County ranked 89 among the 95 counties in Tennessee.

· Visitor spending in Lewis County generated $520,800 in state and local tax revenue.

· If it were not for state and local taxes generated by tourism, each Lewis County household would pay $103 more in state and local taxes.

· Visitor spending generated $782,400 in payroll for Lewis County.

French continued, "We're at an exciting juncture, witnessing unprecedented growth and widespread community support for our shared mission. As we prepare to launch our new Tourism-Ready strategy, we're focused on expanding resources for small businesses, lodging partners, and attractions, further solidifying our region as a premier destination for visitors."