By RDG Principal Brent Jonas
With summer winding down and back-to-school ads popping up, many are squeezing in last-minute vacations. But do you ever consider the impact of your trip on the places you visit?
Evidence shows that sustainable economic growth thrives on an updated "three-legged stool" model: business attraction/development, talent attraction/development, and tourism/placemaking. Tourism and placemaking notably enhance a community's economic vitality and quality of life. Moreover, the connection between tourism, placemaking, and major events attracts corporate leaders who can drive economic investment.
Having been based in Charleston, SC for twenty-seven years and previously working with the Charleston Regional Development Alliance, I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of tourism and major events in driving economic development. For 12 straight years, Charleston has topped the Travel + Leisure best cities list in the U.S. and recently ranked number 22 globally, just ahead of Barcelona—the only U.S city in the Top 25. The efforts behind achieving these rankings, particularly the effort to modernize our airport and improve air service, have transformed our market. Major brands like Google, Amazon, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, and Boeing now call Charleston home, benefiting from this improved access while our region continues to attract visitors and businesses.
Similarly, the Tulsa Regional Chamber of Commerce is leveraging the critical link between tourism, placemaking, and economic development. Tulsa's leaders are integrating their vibrant music, film, arts, cultural, and sports scenes into the new Bridge to the Future 2030 plan. This strategic plan recognizes that attracting visitors is a key to business and talent attraction. By building buzz online, bolstering film incentives, constructing a new convention hotel, and capitalizing on project wins supported by tourism and events like the PGA Championship, Tulsa is investing in placemaking and creative tourism to secure more projects and build a stronger, more resilient community.
Even if your area isn't atop a tourism list or hosting major events, prioritizing tourism and placemaking in economic development can open new opportunities. Something to ponder as you enjoy the rest of your summer!
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