The Barren County Tourism & Convention Commission touts new signage, which was installed this week. The office is located within the confines of the former Glasgow – Barren County Chamber of Commerce.
(BRENNAN CRAIN/WCLU NEWS)
SUBMITTED TO WCLU News
GLASGOW — A recent report released from the local tourism office indicates outdoor adventure options in the area continued to be used during the pandemic and set records for local tourism spending.
In 2021, tourism in Barren County generated 694 jobs directly, another 198 indirectly, $22.4 million in labor income, $8.6 million in state and local taxes, $78.6 million in direct visitor spending, and over $100 million in total visitor spending, according to a news release from Glasgow-Barren County Tourism & Convention Commission.
Calling it a “banner year,” the tourism office said 2021 set a record for the highest tourism spending ever. Total visitor spending increased by 33% from 2020, which exceeded the previous increase of 14% from 2019 to 2020.
“Although the pandemic presented many challenges, we are thrilled to say that Barren County’s unique footing as an outdoor adventure destination in a central location that is within driving distance from many states allowed continued promotion of low risk travel to an extensive market, even during those uncertain times,” said MacLean Lessenberry, executive director of the Glasgow – Barren County Tourist & Convention Commission. “This data solidifies that the tourism industry in Barren County is a vital part of both the state and local economy as well as a key driver behind quality of life and economic development for the area.”
Tourism industry numbers in Kentucky last year exceeded expectations with a total economic impact reaching $11.2 billion, generating 83,100 jobs across the state. The report was produced for the Kentucky Tourism, Arts, & Heritage Cabinet by Tourism Economics, the Kentucky Department of Tourism’s research partner.
As the official destination marketing organization for Glasgow and Barren County, the Glasgow-Barren County Tourist & Convention Commission’s mission is to promote tourist and convention activity in order to generate strong economic impact by promoting and developing the region as a welcoming destination for visitors. A true, unwavering belief in Barren County’s ability to grow and thrive through forward thinking and dedication to the region is at the very core of the commission and its work.
