U.S. Travel Association Joins Local Leaders to Propel Travel Growth and Recovery in Tennessee – Travel And Tour World

On November 25, the U.S. Travel Association, alongside Representative Diana Harshbarger, the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, and local officials, hosted a “Travel Works for America” Power Hour at The LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge. The event centered around strategies to expedite the region’s recovery following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.

“It is vital we continue working with Congresswoman Harshbarger, the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and local business leaders to get much-needed relief to the region and all those affected by the devastating storms,” said Tori Emerson Barnes, U.S. Travel’s Executive Vice President for Public Affairs and Policy. “We appreciate Congresswoman Harshbarger and local leaders’ efforts to push for swift disaster relief, ensuring Pigeon Forge can continue to welcome visitors and expand travel to the area.” 

“It’s a privilege to work alongside the U.S. Travel Association, local officials, and business leaders to address the challenges facing East Tennessee in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene,” said Congresswoman Harshbarger. “The tourism industry is a cornerstone of our local economy, supporting local businesses and thousands of jobs in Pigeon Forge. We must continue to strengthen disaster relief, bring back visitors, and ensure that our communities not only recover but thrive in the years to come.” 

“Tourism is the heart of Pigeon Forge, and we are incredibly grateful for the leadership of Congresswoman Harshbarger and the support of U.S. Travel in helping our community and neighbors recover from Hurricane Helene,” said Leon Downey, Executive Director Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism. “The Congresswoman’s advocacy for disaster relief and U.S. Travel’s efforts, from urging swift congressional action on disaster funding to expanding the H-2B visa program, are making a tangible difference. Their work ensures the travel industry in Sevier County remains strong, supporting countless families and businesses that rely on its success.” 

 “Travel is the lifeblood of Pigeon Forge and a key driver of Tennessee’s economy,” said Commissioner Mark Ezell, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “We are deeply grateful to our partners at the U.S. Travel Association and to Tennessee’s elected leaders for their steadfast support. Whether it’s championing disaster relief for those impacted by Hurricane Helene to advocating for the expansion of the H-2B visa program, their efforts are making a real difference. These initiatives are critical to the continued strength of our travel industry and the communities it supports.” 

In 2022, Tennessee’s travel industry generated $28.9 billion in revenue, sustaining nearly 200,000 jobs across the state. Nationally, the travel sector contributed $2.8 trillion to the economy in 2023 and provided employment for 15 million workers in the U.S. The travel industry is a cornerstone of economic growth, driving success across multiple sectors by connecting people, businesses, and destinations.

The Power Hour’s discussions addressed key topics vital to the travel sector, including the impact of Hurricane Helene on regional communities, the federal government’s role in recovery efforts, and strategies to enhance economic growth and global competitiveness. Other points covered included improving visitor visa processing, enhancing security and reducing delays, streamlining airport customs procedures, investing in cutting-edge technology for airport screening, and upgrading travel infrastructure to promote greater mobility.