Lori Medlin, CEO of the county Convention and Visitors Bureau, said occupancy tax collections increased by 6.99 percent to reach the high of $16,961,608.
“Halifax County’s tourism industry achieved record economic impact in 2015 with direct visitor spending in our county reaching $89.72 million,” she said in the report. “Spending by travelers directly and indirectly supported over 1,000 jobs and generated more than $7.74 million in state and local tax revenues.”
The increase in overall spending, she said, represents 2.3 percent growth. “Our partnerships with attractions, lodging and dining properties remain key to the success of the tourism industry in Halifax County.”
Spending by visitors, Medlin noted, saved county taxpayers $147.55 as tourist spending generated $7.74 million in state and local taxes.
Other highlights of the report included news the bureau’s website reached record levels for traffic and engagement, visitor sessions up by nearly 20 percent; page views up by more than 22 percent and the time visitors stayed on the site up nearly 20 percent.
Across the social media tools the bureau uses, numbers saw increased usage, its Instagram account up 321 percent as visitors post photos of their activities in the county.
Historic Halifax saw 17,000 visitors; Sylvan Heights 47,000 visitors; Medoc Mountain 106,000 visitors and the Roanoke Canal Trail 41,000 visitors. “While continuing to showcase our county’s historic, scenic and active attractions, we were able to make connections with visitors and potential visitors in a very personal way through our digital platforms,” Medlin said.
Medlin said tourism development was bolstered through several initiatives including partnerships with the state Department of Transportation; state Department of Cultural Resources; the state park system; Kate B. Reynolds and the state Wildlife Resources Commission.
Accomplishments included the following:
The 301 Endless Yard Sale now stretches from state line to stare line
The launching of the Wedding Planners Portal on the website
The Underground Railroad Walking in the Footsteps of Freedom Tour
The Discover Halifax County Blog on the bureau’s website
Three electric car charging stations
Enhancements to the Canal Trail and the bike lending program
Sponsored the recent acquisition of Historic Halifax period clothing
Completed the Ledgerwood Field enhancement project, partnering with the city’s Parks and Recreation Department.
Board of commissioners Chair Vernon Bryant told Medlin, “Thank you for all you and your board do and for their great service.”