Tourism is a really big
deal here in Wisconsin. I’ll let the numbers speak for themselves:
- Last year,
Tourism had a $19.3 billion impact on Wisconsin’s economy.
- Total five-year
growth of tourism activity is up by more than $4.5 billion – a 30 percent
increase!
- Tourism supports
nearly 190,717 jobs throughout the state, adding more than 18,700 jobs to the
state’s total employment since 2011.
-
Visitors
generated $1.5 billion in state and local revenue, saving Wisconsin taxpayers
$640 per household.
On top of this, a
travel research leader recently ranked Wisconsin #1 in the Midwest for fun,
family atmosphere, uniqueness, affordability, and outdoor recreation.
When people visit
Wisconsin, they inevitably want to come back. If you ask me, what brings people
back to our state year after year is good, old-fashioned, Midwest hospitality.
People like the way they’re treated here.
They come for the
natural beauty and fun attractions, but they come back thanks to the
hospitality they receive from those who work in our tourism industry and from
the people of our state.
Earlier this week, I
joined Department of Tourism Secretary, Stephanie Klett, at the Governor’s
Conference on Tourism, which draws tourism representatives from all 72
counties. While there, we revealed our new summer and fall ad campaigns. Be
sure to check them out below!
Last week, we learned Wisconsin’s unemployment rate dropped to
3.9 percent in January – the lowest it’s been in 16 years. It’s also
significantly better than the national rate of 4.8 percent.
We also saw significant
job growth over the year in top industries like manufacturing and construction.
On top of this, private-sector wages grew by 7 percent in the third quarter of
last year.
These are all
indicators that our reforms are working. Our state budget proposal builds upon
these reforms and invests in top priorities, including student success,
accountable government, and rewarding work.
I encourage you to
check out my website to learn
more about what’s included in our budget proposal and how this will affect you,
the citizens of Wisconsin. And be sure to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay up-to-date on all the
great things we’re doing to move Wisconsin forward.
We enjoy sharing all the great news about our state with you. It is an honor to serve as your Governor and represent the people of Wisconsin.
Sincerely,
Governor Scott Walker
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