$58.4 million spent in Oconee for 2015 tourism

Tourism expenditures for Oconee County reached an all-time high of $58.4 million in 2015. The report was released recently by South Carolina Parks, Recreation & Tourism and is completed annually by the U.S. Travel Association. A summary of the report was released this afternoon by Oconee County. The report shows that tourism expenditures grew 3.94% from 2014 and that tourism directly supports 450 travel and tourism jobs in Oconee County with a payroll over $8.93 million. Tourism is responsible for over $6.74 million in local and state taxes collected, which reduces the local tax burden of every household by $172 annually. Oconee County ranks 20th among South Carolina counties in tourism spending and has experienced a 34% growth since 2006, which equals an additional $14.85 million annually being spent in our local economy today as compared to 2006. Phil Shirley, Director of Parks, Recreation & Tourism said, “Tourism is a vital piece of economic development. Oconee County Council’s adoption of the Destination Oconee plan shows a continued commitment to promoting and protecting our natural assets and tourism product development. By continuing to make tourism promotion and product development a priority, we not only grow tourism, we also continue to improve the overall quality of life for all of us.” Ken Sloan, President/CEO of the Mountain Lakes Convention & Visitor’s Bureau says “Tourism is one of the leading industries both nationally and internationally. It is my expectation that with the continued incredible community support of tourism, it will soon be the number one industry in Oconee County.” The full report “Economic Impact of travel on South Carolina Counties 2015” is available at www.scprt.com under the research heading.