According to an announcement made by Gov. Tim M. Kaine yesterday, the Virginia tourism industry generated $19.2 billion in revenue, supported 210,620 jobs, and provided $1.28 billion in state and local tax revenue in 2008.
These economic impact figures show a 2.8 percent increase in revenue from tourism in Virginia compared to 2007.
Tourism is one of Virginia’s strongest industries and appears to remain so despite the recent economic downturn, said Kaine. The industry is expected to continue its success through the next year, as 2009 marks the 40th anniversary of the state slogan “Virginia is for Lovers.”
Forbes.com recently named this slogan as one of the top 10 tourism campaigns of all time.