US Travel Powers Travel Works Agenda For Transformative Growth In Tourism – Travel And Tour World

US Travel joined Rep. Harshbarger and leaders in Pigeon Forge to discuss tourism’s role in recovery, growth, and innovation at the “Travel Works” Power Hour.

The U.S. Travel Association, in collaboration with Rep. Diana Harshbarger, the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, and local leaders, hosted the “Travel Works for America” Power Hour on November 25 at The LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge. The event brought together key stakeholders to discuss actionable policies and strategies to aid the region’s recovery following the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene. The gathering underscored the importance of travel and tourism as critical drivers of economic recovery and community resilience.

Tennessee’s travel industry has long been a pillar of the state’s economy, with $28.9 billion in travel spending in 2022 supporting nearly 200,000 jobs. This robust contribution highlights the travel sector’s role in fueling local economies. On a national scale, the U.S. travel industry generated $2.8 trillion in economic output in 2023, providing livelihoods for 15 million workers. The industry’s capacity to connect people, foster commerce, and contribute to nearly every business sector showcases its unparalleled economic significance.

The Power Hour explored key challenges and opportunities for the travel industry in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Discussions included the hurricane’s profound impact on regional communities and the critical role of federal policies and funding in supporting recovery efforts. Stakeholders emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to rebuild and revitalize affected areas, ensuring that local economies dependent on tourism can rebound effectively.

Another major focus of the agenda was improving the travel ecosystem to boost economic growth and competitiveness. Topics included streamlining visitor visa processing to encourage international tourism, enhancing security measures while reducing delays, and implementing a world-class customs experience at airports. Such measures aim to make the U.S. more accessible and appealing to global travelers while ensuring a seamless and secure experience.

Investment in infrastructure and technology also took center stage during the discussions. The Power Hour highlighted the importance of advancing airport screening technologies and upgrading transportation systems to enhance travel mobility. By prioritizing these investments, the travel industry can continue to drive innovation, improve efficiency, and support sustainable growth, ensuring its role as a cornerstone of the U.S. economy.