LINCOLN, NEB., 2012-09-27 — /travelprnews.com/ — The Nebraska Tourism Strategic Plan ordered by the Nebraska Legislature is complete and available for review.
This legislation, introduced by Sen. Ken Schilz of Ogallala, called for a study of current conditions and issues facing Nebraska tourism, and a long-term strategy for growth.
The statewide plan to grow the economic base of tourism in Nebraska was developed by Conventions, Sports and Leisure (CSL), a Minnesota-based consulting firm, and is the result of input from more than 500 tourism, business and community leaders; 28 community forums and focus groups; and extensive field research in every region of the state.
“Tourism is important to Nebraska’s economy,” Schilz said. “As a state, we need to focus our efforts to ensure that we are competitive with our neighboring states. The strategic plan that has been completed by CSL will give us a map for success.”
Nebraska Tourism Commissioner Mike Kesselring said, “The Nebraska tourism industry is ready to start thinking in creative new ways and to take the next step in promoting of our state treasures. Through these new promotional efforts a dynamic approach to enhancing tourism on a statewide level will be realized and will increase our presence as a travel destination.
“The strategic plan will serve as a guide in helping us achieve these goals, not the least of which will result in a robust fiscal presence within the state.”
CSL representative John Kaatz said since the strategic planning process began, great progress has been made toward growing the impact of the tourism industry in Nebraska with newly infused staff leadership and the support and guidance of the new Tourism Commission, which is aggressively pursuing new opportunities and initiatives to increase visitation to the state.
“In our travels, we have been privileged to experience the energy and urban character of the larger metropolitan areas, the historic small towns, scenic byways, highly unique natural beauty, adventure and wildlife, an opportunity to experience a western heritage unique to North America, and a history directly linked to the growth of the country,” Kaatz said. “The state of Nebraska could be described as the most diverse 520 miles in the country. This combines with a spirit of self-reliance, openness and friendliness that helps define the character of Nebraska. It is this diversity of experiences and the need to educate so many travelers who are unaware of the many wonderful and unique travel opportunities in the state that represents the next great challenge for the tourism industry.”
State Roads Director Randy Peters said the comprehensive study and new strategic plan for development and support of tourism will serve Nebraskans for a long time to come.
“The Department of Roads looks forward to working closely with the Tourism Commission to coordinate positive efforts to promote tourism vitality and provide safe transportation systems throughout Nebraska,” Peters said.
The plan will serve as a visionary blueprint with targeted and realistic recommendations that will allow the state’s tourism industry to grow and thrive for the next 10 years.
Roger Kuhn, a Nebraska Tourism Commissioner and the parks division administrator for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, said tourism is an important economic industry that creates opportunity and provides a better quality of life for all Nebraskans.
“It is a very exciting time for the tourism industry and the Strategic Plan provides direction to grow the industry creating a more vibrant and inviting environment for citizens to live and work,” Kuhn said.
The final report and supporting research materials are now available at industry.visitnebraska.org under Industry Reports.
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