WASHINGTON -
The U.S. Travel Association joined Rep. Diana Harshbarger, the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and local leaders for a “Travel Works for America” Power Hour at The LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge on November 25. The discussion focused on policies to accelerate the region’s recovery from Hurricane Helene.
"It is vital we continue working with Congresswoman Harshbarger, the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and local business leaders to get much-needed relief to the region and all those affected by the devastating storms," said Tori Emerson Barnes, U.S. Travel's Executive Vice President for Public Affairs and Policy. "We appreciate Congresswoman Harshbarger and local leaders’ efforts to push for swift disaster relief, ensuring Pigeon Forge can continue to welcome visitors and expand travel to the area.”
“It’s a privilege to work alongside the U.S. Travel Association, local officials, and business leaders to address the challenges facing East Tennessee in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene," said Congresswoman Harshbarger. “The tourism industry is a cornerstone of our local economy, supporting local businesses and thousands of jobs in Pigeon Forge. We must continue to strengthen disaster relief, bring back visitors, and ensure that our communities not only recover but thrive in the years to come.”
"Tourism is the heart of Pigeon Forge, and we are incredibly grateful for the leadership of Congresswoman Harshbarger and the support of U.S. Travel in helping our community and neighbors recover from Hurricane Helene," said Leon Downey, Executive Director Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism. "The Congresswoman’s advocacy for disaster relief and U.S. Travel’s efforts, from urging swift congressional action on disaster funding to expanding the H-2B visa program, are making a tangible difference. Their work ensures the travel industry in Sevier County remains strong, supporting countless families and businesses that rely on its success."
“Travel is the lifeblood of Pigeon Forge and a key driver of Tennessee's economy,” said Commissioner Mark Ezell, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “We are deeply grateful to our partners at the U.S. Travel Association and to Tennessee's elected leaders for their steadfast support. Whether it's championing disaster relief for those impacted by Hurricane Helene to advocating for the expansion of the H-2B visa program, their efforts are making a real difference. These initiatives are critical to the continued strength of our travel industry and the communities it supports.”
In 2022, $28.9 billion in travel spending supported nearly 200,000 jobs in Tennessee. In total, the travel industry produced $2.8 trillion in economic output and supported 15 million U.S. workers in 2023. Travel strengthens businesses across the economy by connecting people and places and contributing to the success of practically every business sector.
The Power Hour agenda included critical topics to the travel industry, such as: impacts from Hurricane Helene on regional communities and the federal role in the road to recovery; bolstering economic growth and competitiveness; visitor visa processing; strengthening security and reduction of delays; creating a world class airport customs process; investment in technology to revolutionize airport screening; investment in travel mobility and infrastructure.
U.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representing the $1.3 trillion travel industry, an essential contributor to our nation's economy and success. U.S. Travel produces programs and insights and advocates for policies to increase travel to and within the United States. Visit ustravel.org for more information.