Mayor Donna Deegan proclaimed May 19-25 National Travel and Tourism Week in Jacksonville during a reception held May 22 at Visit Jacksonville headquarters and the downtown visitor’s center.
Deegan said 10 percent of Duval County residents, or about 54,000 people, work in the tourism industry.
She also commented on a survey gauging the experience of people from far away who came to Jacksonville for the annual Donna Marathon Weekend.
“Everyone says our citizens have been very welcoming, and it makes me proud to hear that,” Deegan said.
City Council President Ron Salem is chairman of the Duval County Tourist Development Council, the city agency that administers subsidies for tourism and events that attract visitors to Northeast Florida.
“This week is a reminder of the incredible impact travel and tourism has on our communities and economy,” Salem said.
He said Jacksonville could see more than 22 million overnight and day trips by 2023, generating $4 billion in economic impact.
Visit Jacksonville President and CEO Michael Corrigan said the Jacksonville and Beaches Convention and Visitors Bureau is expanding the program this year.
Approximately 75 people completed the Tourism Ambassador Program. This program allows you to learn about the local community and tourism industry and tell the story of Jacksonville to visitors.
The Explorers program, which started on the beach last year with a sandcastle contest and silent disco at the Jacksonville Beach Pier, is expanding to more events across the city.
Corrigan said the Jacksonville Ale Trail’s self-guided tours of local craft breweries have grown to include a coffee and donut trail, and this week the Mayport Shrimp Trail will feature “Jacksonville Trail Mix.” Said to be added to the called tour.
Information about all of Visit Jacksonville’s programs for visitors and residents can be found at visitjacksonville.com.
