Visitor Counts Increase for Third Consecutive Year
By Danita Boonchaisri
PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. (Sept. 22, 2008)—Calvert County, the smallest county in Maryland, posted big increases in visitors this past fiscal year, continuing a three-year boost in tourism to the diminutive district.
More than 475,000 visitors flocked to 15 Calvert County sites between July 1, 2007, and June 30, 2008, an increase of 50,450 visitors over FY 07. The 11.9 percent increase follows annual growth of 18.6 percent in FY 06 and 19.6 percent FY 07.
Visitor counts are reported from each of the County’s major tourist attractions and visitor centers. Major tourist attractions include the Calvert Marine Museum, Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum, Breezy Point Beach, Calvert Cliffs State Park and Annmarie Garden.
Linda Vassallo, director of the Calvert County Department of Economic Development, observed that several factors are making the County a favorite tourist destination. “We’ve worked hard to realign the tourism program and to spread the word locally and regionally about Calvert County’s many charms,” she said. “The County has so much to offer, including trails, beaches, shops, museums, restaurants and marinas. We’ve encouraged our local residents to rediscover the amenities in their own back yard. We’ve also reached out to the Virginia, Washington, DC and Baltimore areas to show that beautiful scenery and fun, engaging activities are all within a short drive. Tourists around the region are spreading the word, and the County’s economic health is better for it.”