LIVE @ Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA) Webinar Meeting 10/28/20

Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority Meeting Recap: October 28, 2020

The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (BCTDA) held a webinar meeting on October 28, 2020, focusing primarily on the current state of Asheville Regional Airport, progress on the Woodfin Greenway and Blueway project, and an overview of evolving tourism trends in a post-COVID world. The meeting provided valuable updates for residents interested in the direction of tourism and related development within Buncombe County.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to an update on Asheville Regional Airport, which has demonstrated resilience compared to many other airports nationwide. While passenger numbers have significantly decreased – currently projected around 700-725,000 for the year, a return to levels seen in 2014/2015 – the airport has maintained a relatively strong position with 18 non-stop routes. Notably, Allegiant Airlines expanded its presence, adding four new routes to key cities like Houston and Austin. Airport officials highlighted traveler sentiment surveys indicating a strong desire to fly within the next six months, driven by a focus on safety measures like enhanced filtration systems and mask-wearing. The board acknowledged the positive impact of Pratt & Whitney's recent investment in the region, recognizing its potential to positively influence tourism.

The meeting also featured a detailed presentation on the Woodfin Greenway and Blueway project, a collaborative effort between Buncombe County, the Town of Woodfin, and RiverLink. The project aims to create a connected network of greenways and blueways along the French Broad River, enhancing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. The board discussed a request to amend the existing Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) contract, extending the completion deadline to December 2023 and restructuring disbursement amounts. Project leaders outlined challenges including regulatory hurdles, landowner negotiations, and the impact of COVID-19, resulting in a current funding gap of approximately $4 million. The board will vote on this contract amendment, and ongoing fundraising efforts are crucial to closing the funding gap.

Beyond specific projects, the BCTDA provided a strategic overview of national tourism trends. Discussions centered on the shift towards leisure travel and auto trips, with approximately 50% of potential travelers expressing safety concerns. The BCTDA is responding by focusing on safety messaging and targeting leisure travelers, leveraging partnerships like the U.S. Travel’s "Let's Go There" campaign to showcase Asheville as a desirable destination. A brief discussion also arose regarding concerns about mask compliance in downtown Asheville, prompting suggestions to reinforce safety messaging.

Key Decisions & Actions: The board will vote on the TPDF contract amendment for the Woodfin Greenway and Blueway project. They also committed to continuing fundraising efforts to address the $4 million funding gap and exploring legislative options for greater flexibility in TPDF funding allocation. The BCTDA will continue its targeted marketing campaigns, emphasizing safety and leisure travel.

What This Means for Residents: The ongoing efforts to support the Asheville Regional Airport and develop recreational amenities like the Woodfin Greenway & Blueway project directly impact the quality of life for Buncombe County residents. A thriving tourism sector, supported by these initiatives, contributes to a vibrant local economy and provides opportunities for recreation and enjoyment. The BCTDA’s focus on safety messaging ensures a welcoming environment for both visitors and residents alike.

The next BCTDA meeting will be announced on their website, [Insert Website Here].