ANFVB joins Pennsylvania Association of Travel & Tourism

Coming out of the most successful national tourism week to date, the Pennsylvania Association of Travel and Tourism, or PATT, is gearing up for its official public launch in order to continue the positive momentum that has swept over PA tourism.

Focused on its future, Pennsylvania’s tourism industry has mobilized to form a new statewide association to enhance its advocacy, public awareness and professional development programs. PATT’s top priorities are developing a strategic plan for PA tourism, restoring funding for the industry through the creation of a public-private tourism organization that would market and promote Pennsylvania Tourism and campaigning for a post-Labor Day school start so that the tourism and travel industries in PA can take advantage of the most traveled weeks of the year.

PATT is hoping to shed a light on the abundant positive impacts of tourism. Pennsylvania tourism is a critical component of the state’s economy. In 2010, Pennsylvania tourists spent more than $35.9 billion, generating more than $3.6 billion in state and local tax revenue.

This tax revenue supports public education and social welfare programs. In 2010, tourism provided employment for 452,300 Pennsylvanians. The industry provides valuable work experiences for high school and college students, viable incomes, advancement opportunities, and promising life-long careers in hospitality, entertainment, food and beverage, recreation, the arts and history for talented professionals. Tourism overnight stays have increased 22 percent within McKean County during fiscal year 2011-2012. The opening of the Kinzua Sky Walk and the new Bullis Hollow Trail, along with falling gas prices and a pent up desire for travel to nearby destinations, has positively impacted the number of travelers utilizing both traditional accommodations along with an increased number of campers and outdoor recreationists visiting our region.

PATT is able to leverage its experience and relationships to advocate for public policies that directly benefit PA and the ANF Visitors Bureau which represents McKean County tourism. In addition to serving the diverse membership of PA Travel and Tourism, PATT is focusing its resources on education, professional development and strengthening legislative relationships in order to sustainably move the industry forward.

We at the ANF Visitors Bureau will join PATT in the fight to improve industry awareness by educating the public, public officials and other industry members on the economic, cultural and social impact of PA travel and tourism in addition to local tourism here in McKean County.

For more information, click on www.visitANF.com or call 800-473-9370.

The news leader of the Twin Tiers ...
since 1947