Connecticut leaders hoping to draw tourists this summer
EAST LYME, Conn. (WTNH) — Many people are getting ready for this unofficial kickoff to the summer season, including state leaders who traditionally use the Friday leading into the Memorial Day weekend to tout tourism.
Connecticut attractions push for more spending on tourism
Today, they were at Rocky Neck State Park reminding people what the state has to offer.
According to the state there, will be a lot for those kids and everyone to do this summer.
'No matter where you live in Connecticut, you are not more than 20 minutes away from one of our gorgeous state parks,' Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, (D-Conn.) said.
Programs like Passport to Parks, which provides free parking to Connecticut residents, and Park Connect which provides shuttles from public transportation, are all designed to improve access to state parks and beaches.
'Users can now reserve all terrain wheelchairs in seven Connecticut State Park and Forest locations around the state,' Katie Dykes, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, said.
But it's also the many attractions like Mystic Seaport, named second best outdoor museum by USA Today and other national rankings, which state leaders hope will attract more visitors.
'The best state in the U.S. for hiking,' Anthony Anthony, chief marketing officer for the state, said.
The state says tourism is an $18.5 billion industry in Connecticut, responsible for 125,000 jobs.
If you do decide to head to the beach, three state parks will have lifeguards starting this Memorial Day weekend. Sherwood Island, Hammonasset and Rocky Neck State Park.
'Our tourism budget was about $12 million in 2023. Right now, if nothing happens in the legislative session with this budget, it's going to go down to $4.5 million,' Scott Dolch, president & CEO of the Connecticut Restaurant Association, said.
'We're still in negotiations with the legislature right now as we're trying to get the right balance going forward,' Gov. Ned Lamont said.
Many want more tourism money and more sunshine to help ensure a successful summer season.
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