Tourism-related traffic and spending saw a steady increase in Anderson County between 2018 and 2019, according to information recently released by the Kentucky Department of Tourism.
From 2018 to 2019, tourism-related employment increased from 88 jobs to 90 jobs, labor income increased from $1.96 million to $2.06 million, state and local taxes collected increased from $790,000 to $830,000 and total spending increased from $11.44 million to $12.14 million.
Longwoods International conducted the study and provided the economic impact numbers. The company has been tracking American travelers since 1985.
The data from Longwoods International shows that the largest percentage of day visitors coming into the region that includes Anderson County are coming here from Kentucky (58%), Indiana (15%), Ohio (7%), Illinois (5%), Tennessee (5%) and Florida (2%). For overnight visitors the region is seeing the largest percentage of visitors from Kentucky (28%), Florida (10%), Ohio (10%), Indiana (9%), Tennessee (5%) and Michigan (4%).
“It’s not unusual to see visitors in Lawrenceburg from any state in America, from California to Maine, and from numerous countries, but the Longwoods study gives us great insight into where the bulk of our visitors live,” said Kendall Clinton, executive director of the Lawrenceburg/Anderson County Tourism Commission. “These numbers reflect positive growth from 2018 through 2019, showing Lawrenceburg and Anderson County continue to appeal to those wanting to come experience the tourism-related attractions and events we have to offer.”
Closures of tourism attractions and events and the restrictions placed on restaurants and retail stores to help slow the spread of COVID-19 are expected to have a noticeable impact on tourism once the data for 2020 is analyzed, though this year was on track to exceed the numbers recorded in 2019.
“The rebound in the tourism industry is underway and will play an important role in the recovery of the local, state and national economy,” Clinton said. “We want visitors to come to Lawrenceburg and Anderson County and to be able to do so safely. Our restaurants, attractions and upcoming events are taking steps to make that possible. We look forward to welcoming people to come experience all of the things that make Lawrenceburg special.”