Peoria saw a rise in tourism and convention dollars last year. That was the message delivered today by the director of the Illinois Office of Tourism during statewide tour stop in Peoria.
State numbers show a 4.75 percent increase in tourism expenditures in the Peoria area. That amounts to a total economic impact of about $665 million and $15 million in tax receipts for the Peoria area.
Illinois Tourism Director Cory Jobe says the numbers make a strong case for continued investment in the industry.
“Those are impressive numbers to talk about in terms of who’s creating economic impact in the Illinois economy, and it’s really the tourism industry,” Jobe said.
Jobe says the department is looking at ways to expand innovative marketing through social media. They’ve already launched a grass-roots video series, called "Illinois Made," that highlights artisans and crafts people unique to the state.
“We want to instill a sense of pride in our state, inspire travel to these local businesses, and reshape perceptions about Illinois,” Jobe said.
The Illinois Office of Tourism is accepting nominations on its website for artisans to be featured in the mini-documentaries.