The Augusta Convention and Visitors Bureau is celebrating travel and tourism’s impact on the community during National Travel and Tourism Week, May 1-7. Augusta’s Mayor Hardie Davis, Jr. made a proclamation at 10 a.m., May 2 at the Augusta Visitor Center, declaring May 1-7, 2016, as National Travel and Tourism Week in Augusta.
 
This is the 33rd annual National Travel and Tourism Week, which unites communities each year to celebrate what travel means to American jobs, economic growth and personal well-being.
 
“Just look at the numbers. Travel supports one in nine American jobs, including 4,603 right here in Augusta, Georgia,” said Barry White, President and CEO of the ACVB. “This week, we are celebrating what travel means to our community, and we call on everyone – from elected officials to local residents – to join us in saluting this important industry.”
 
Mayor Davis spoke about the positive impact tourism has in Augusta. Among the many benefits that travel has on the community, in 2014 tourism generated $506.7 million in direct visitor spending; created $19.4 million in state tax revenue; produced $14.3 million in local tax revenue; and generated $388 in tax relief per household for citizens of Augusta.