People have been spending more more money at local hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and attractions.
The Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau says a new study shows that in 2016, travel-related expenditures totaled $857 million in Rock Island and Scott counties. That's a 2 percent increase compared to 2015.
Bureau President and CEO, Joe Taylor, says the figures from the US Travel Association are evidence that tourism is very important to the local economy.
The study also shows every dollar spent on tourism in the Quad Cities generates more than $308.00 in local economic impact. And Taylor says the leisure and hospitality industry's success is one reason the local unemployment rate is low.
In addition, for the first time since 2001, tourism in Scott and Rock Island counties supports more than 8,000 jobs. Year over year, local sales tax receipts increased $1 million to $14 million.
