May 1

The Caldwell County Chamber of Commerce announces that domestic visitation to Caldwell County generated an economic impact of $44.01 million in 2009. Tourism is an important economic driver for businesses in Caldwell County. Tourism helps support local businesses, brings “new money” to the area, promotes businesses development, and improves appearance of the community. Caldwell County is ranked 55 in travel impact among North Carolina’s 100 counties.

In 2009, tourism activity in Caldwell County generated enough state and local taxes to provide $49.41 in tax relieve for each household in Caldwell County. State and local tax revenue generated $3.96 million through state sales and excise taxes, and taxes on personal and corporate income. More than 360 jobs in Caldwell County were directly attributable to travel tourism.

These statistics are from the “2009 Economic Impact of Travel On North Carolina Counties.” The study was prepared for the North Carolina Division of Tourism, Film and Sports Development by the U.S. Travel Association.

Statewide highlights include:

• Domestic tourism expenditures directly supported 183,800 jobs for North Carolina residents.*
• The tourism industry contributed $3.91 billion to the state’s payroll in 2009.*
• Traveler spending generated over $2.5 billion in tax receipts: *
• $1.18 billion in federal taxes, and $1.35 billion in state and local taxes:*
• $841.3 million in state tax revenue & $509.9 million in local tax revenue*
• North Carolina ranks sixth in person-trip volume by state behind California, Florida, Texas, New York, and Pennsylvania.