CCEDC Accepts Commissioners’ Request to Become TPA
The Clarion County Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC) has accepted the request of the Clarion County Commissioners to become the tourism promotion agency for Clarion County. We are humbled by this request and recognize both the opportunity and challenge inherent in accepting. The CCEDC’s central purpose is to elevate Clarion County, so this opportunity and challenge that the Commissioners have presented to us is well within our mission.
Tourism development in Clarion County is a major key toward successful economic development. There is no doubt that our county possesses a wealth of natural resources and outdoor recreation assets. Too, the rich history of Clarion County and its many small towns are appealing to travelers from across the United States. Prior to this new direction, the CCEDC had always considered the development and promotion of tourism as a vital piece of our local economy. We are greatly looking forward to the opportunities to directly incorporate tourism promotion into the overall economic development efforts for Clarion County.
The CCEDC’s approach to this new challenge is, “build it once, build it right.” To employ this approach correctly, it is important that all tourism stakeholders are regularly and actively involved in the creation of the CCEDC’s strategic tourism direction. This will take time. However, defining a new direction for Clarion County tourism is not just an opportunity for the CCEDC but for all Clarion County stakeholders. Clarion County’s new direction must be modern, inclusive, wide-reaching, and accessible to all generations. To meet that goal, we commit to providing steady communication, valuable opportunities for all to contribute, and develop strategies that retain loyal visitors and attract newcomers.
In the coming weeks, the CCEDC will be taking steps to restructure our organization and align resources to meet the needs of a tourism promotion agency. We also look forward to making new announcements that will provide detailed information on our next steps. As we adapt, we will continue to lean on our committed businesses, elected officials, and community partners to ensure this transition is effective and as short as possible.