A Cumberland County Tourism Summit Thursday will bring together local leaders, business owners, and community partners to explore the future of tourism in the region.
Director of Tourism and Executive Director of Downtown Crossville PJ Barnes said the summit will highlight the county’s accomplishments and future plans. Barnes said the summit is a free event that people do not want to miss.
“We are going to have a couple of keynote speakers,” Barnes said. “We are going to talk about everything that we have been able to accomplish in the tourism realm in Crossville and Cumberland County, some of the incredible partnerships that we have been able to create, as well as kind of our plan going forward,” Barnes said.
Barnes said the summit is also designed to educate local business owners about ways to promote themselves and take advantage of tourism opportunities. He said the goal is to strengthen the network of tourism-related businesses across the county and connect them with resources they might not otherwise have access to.
Barnes emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses in partnership with the Destination Marketing Organization.
“A big part of what we do is we have partnerships that [businesses] don’t have the time to have… we just want to equip them and allow them, show them the value of tourism, and that it has in their business specifically,” Barnes said.
Barnes said tourism plays a key role in keeping the local economy vibrant. He said visitors bring in money that supports restaurants, shops, hotels, and attractions, helping maintain jobs and growth throughout the county.
“We are 15th out of 95 counties in total economic impact and tourism specifically,” Barnes said. “That is helping impact our small businesses and our city and county government by helping fund those occupancy taxes and those sales taxes.”
Barnes said tourism also helps residents by reducing the need for higher property taxes, as outside visitors contribute to local revenue. He stressed that this is a benefit that directly impacts everyday life for local families.
Barnes also said the summit aims to reshape perceptions about tourism and encourage pride in the community.
“Tourism is about bringing people in and getting them to experience all the incredible parts of Crossville and Cumberland County and help support our local businesses and our attractions,” Barnes said.
The summit will take place at the newly renovated Palace Theatre from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Barnes said attendees can expect $10,000 in giveaways during the event. Seats are limited, and those interested can reserve one of the remaining 100 spots by RSVPing through the Crossville Tourism Facebook page.