Assemblymember Didi Barrett (D-Columbia, Dutchess) announced her appointment as Chair of a new subcommittee on Regional Tourism Development. The committee will focus on the state’s tourist attractions as local and regional economic engines, enhancing the foundation for better integration of tourism in regional economic development policies.

“Often, we look at arts organizations, cultural institutions and historic sites as simply destinations that need government support, however, these institutions can also be major economic drivers for local communities,” Assemblymember Barrett said. “This subcommittee will enable us to take a multidimensional approach to regional economic development policies and will help emphasize the importance of tourism in economic stability. I would like to thank Speaker Heastie for this appointment and for recognizing the importance of cultural, historic and natural site to our local and state economy.”

Assemblymember Barrett’s experience in the tourism industry encouraged her to advocate for the creation of the subcommittee. The Hudson Valley is home to numerous sites – including Olana in Hudson, The FDR Presidential Library and Home in Hyde Park and the new Wassaic Project in Amenia –all of which are helping to drive tourism and grow the economy. The Regional Tourism Development Subcommittee will examine tourism diversity from the perspective of regional development and will help identify challenges that slow down development or hinder opportunities in the industry.