WASHINGTON -
On Friday, February 21, the U.S. Travel Association hosted a "Travel Works for America" Power Hour event in Buffalo, New York. The gathering brought together Congressman Timothy Kennedy (NY-26), Patrick J. Kaler, President & CEO of Visit Buffalo Niagara, John Percy, President & CEO of Destination Niagara USA and other regional leaders to discuss the crucial role travel plays in the local economy and workforce.
“It was a great opportunity to join Congressman Kennedy, Patrick Kaler, John Percy and local leaders to discuss how travel contributes to the economy in Western New York,” said Tori Emerson Barnes, Executive Vice President for Public Affairs and Policy at U.S. Travel. “We’re excited to continue working with Congressman Kennedy to help expand the travel industry and maximize its benefits both locally and nationwide.”
"The Buffalo-Niagara region is a premier destination, and travelers are taking note," said Congressman Kennedy. "From Buffalo Bills games and world-famous wings to cultural landmarks like the Buffalo AKG Art Museum and the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls, our area has something for everyone. We are strengthening the visitor experience by investing in the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, public transportation, the waterfront and downtown. The tourism boom has resulted in record-breaking spending in the past few years, including $2.4 billion in Erie County and $1 billion in Niagara Falls, supporting tens of thousands of good-paying jobs. I look forward to continued partnership with Visit Buffalo Niagara and the U.S. Travel Association in Congress to build on this progress.”
"The Power Hour event was a pivotal moment for highlighting the immense impact that travel and tourism have on our region,” said Patrick Kaler, President and CEO of Visit Buffalo Niagara. “We are proud to see Buffalo and Niagara Falls recognized as premier destinations that offer diverse cultural experiences, natural wonders and thriving local businesses. Collaborating with Congressman Kennedy, John Percy and U.S. Travel reinforces our commitment to enhancing the visitor experience and driving economic growth. Our continued investments in infrastructure, marketing and community engagement ensure that the Buffalo-Niagara region remains a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide.”
"Travel is a powerful economic engine for Western New York, and Niagara Falls USA plays a pivotal role in driving visitation to the region,” said John Percy, President and CEO of Destination Niagara Falls USA. “From our natural wonders to our vibrant cultural and culinary experiences, tourism fuels local businesses and supports thousands of jobs. We are committed to working alongside Congressman Kennedy, Visit Buffalo Niagara and the U.S. Travel Association to strengthen our travel industry, improve accessibility and ensure that visitors continue to choose the Buffalo-Niagara region as a premier destination."
The Power Hour also covered several key issues facing the national and local travel sectors, including reducing wait times for first-time visitor visa applicants, currently averaging more than 230 days in key international markets; improving U.S. Customs processing times at major airports; investing in technology to enhance airport security screenings; and advancing travel mobility and infrastructure improvements.
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.