COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) – It is anticipated that over two million travelers will pass through Columbus in 2025, contributing an additional several million dollars to local enterprises.
As summer approaches and we celebrate National Tourism Week, VisitColumbus officials are highlighting the significance of Southern hospitality and its substantial effect on the economy of the Chattahoochee Valley region.
Authorities stated that visitors invested more than $300 million in Columbus during the previous year. These funds will contribute to the municipal budget and support numerous initiatives. In the absence of this income, the city would need to cover project costs from general funds, potentially leading to increased taxes for locals.
In 2024, visitors contributed $377 million to the economy of Fountain City, stated VisitColumbus’ president and CEO, Ashley Woitena. According to her, Columbus boasts numerous draws including the vibrant ambiance of Uptown Columbus, Double-A baseball games, and various historically significant galleries scattered throughout the city.
The National Infantry Museum, the Columbus Museum, and even our Civil War Naval Museum all excel too,” stated Ashley Woitena, who serves as both the president and CEO of VisitColumbusGA. “We boast numerous attractions, including having the world’s longest urban whitewater course.
Columbus is really worth visiting,” stated Rocky Marsh, the VP of River Valley Black Chamber of Commerce. “It boasts excellent weather all year round, and there’s always lots to see and do despite any negative comments.
When visitors spend their money in the Fountain City, Woitena claims this helps locals save on taxes, with each home paying approximately $639 less annually. These savings will go towards constructing and upkeep of facilities within Columbus.
What they leave behind includes their tax contributions,” she noted. “This has a clear economic effect locally. Previously, we received $26 million from local taxes and hotel fees, which all gets reinvested into Columbus.
Marsh indicates that another factor drawing enterprises to the region is the affordable cost of living.
He mentioned that it enables both its members and entrepreneurs to maintain a high quality of life while simultaneously developing and expanding their enterprises. When individuals join Columbus, they bring opportunities; this serves as an indicator of our progress.
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