Visitors to Overton County spent some $8 million through increased tourism last year, an increase of some eight percent.
Livingston-Overton County Chamber of Commerce President Zach Stephens said this money was enough to save each household some $102 in taxes. He said the increase is because of the county’s unique attractions, like Standing Stone State Park.
“It’s our wonderful downtown or the investments we’ve made over at Central Park,” Stephens said. “I think folks are just looking for opportunities to get out and experience a small town, and that’s why we’ve seen that growth.”
Stephens said the Chamber recently revived a tourism marketing grant from the Department of Tourism. He said the chamber is looking into the best use of the newly acquired funding.
“We’re working to improve our social media presence online from a tourism perspective,” Stephens said. “And we’re communicating with our members and businesses in the community to see how we can better help them and serve them from a tourism perspective to get them to come and even extend their stays.”
Stephens said Overton County has great shopping, dining, and natural assets for people to explore. Stephens said the wide variety of offerings means there is something for everyone to enjoy.
“There’s just lots of ways to get out and experience our community,” Stephens said. “And it appeals you know, from people travelling solo, to families, to even retirees.”
Stephens said outdoor activities are canoeing, hiking, and fishing are things people can experience while visiting Overton County.
Stephens said the extra $8 million brought in by tourists gives residents a direct financial benefit. Stephens said local retailers and restaurants also benefit from visitor spending.
Stephens said the Chamber continues to work with the Tennessee Department of Tourism Development to improve visits to Overton County. Stephens said he is regularly applying for grants to better market the county to tourism.
Stephens said he hopes outsiders continue to visit, shop, and dine in Overton County moving forward.
