The increased focus on attracting visitors to Batesville and Independence County has paid off according to the 2017 Arkansas Tourism Economic Impact report produced by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. Total travel expenditures in Independence County were up by $5,115,660.00 in 2017 compared to the previous year.
The rise in expenditures can be attributed to several different factors according to Tourism Director Kyle Christopher. “The number of attractions our community can now offer visitors has improved dramatically over the past year. The Batesville Community Center and Aquatics Park welcomed over 185,000 guests in 2017, many of which were visitors from out of town. The revitalization of Downtown Batesville which included the completion of the streetscape project, the first phase of Maxfield Park, the opening of several retail and dining options and the first full year of operation from the historic Melba Theater. The White River Wonderland Christmas display had approximately 120,000 visitors this season. The addition and improvement of area events was also a major factor. Southside School District hosted the 4A State Soccer and Volleyball tournaments in 2017. The Batesville Motor Speedway added the Race for Hope 74 which brought drivers in from across the country for nearly a full week. The 74th White River Water Carnival also enjoyed a record year for attendance. Our community has begun making waves statewide and I believe we have the momentum to sustain continued growth into the future.”
Other Notable Independence County Statistics Include:
Travel-Generated Local Tax (Dollars): 986,590
Travel-Generated Employment (Jobs): 527
Visitors (Person-Trips): 204,852
For more information about Batesville and Independence County please visit:www.experienceindependence.com or call 870-793-2378
