FLORENCE-Civitas is excited to announce the establishment of the Florence Tourism Improvement District (FTID)! Thanks to the hard work and dedication of many, including Larry Bowser, General Manager of Marriott Shoals, Rep. Kerry Underwood, who sponsored the bill, and Rob Carnegie and his team, this strategic initiative is set to enhance economic growth in Florence, AL. The FTID will have an assessment rate of 4%, which will bring in an additional $1,030,539 annually for marketing the destination!
Rob Carnegie, President and CEO of the Florence-Lauderdale Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, notes the importance of this additional funding: “In a very competitive marketplace, it is essential to remain relevant and attractive to visitors who have so many choices.”
The FTID will deliver a variety of services aimed at promoting Florence as a prime destination, including the creation of festivals and events to attract visitors, the production of tourist-related marketing materials, destination development projects, such as capital improvements, and many more. “The economic impact from these new visitors will have a profound effect on all of our local businesses and increase the quality of life for all of our residents,” says General Manager of the Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa, Larry Bowser. With the implementation of these services, the FTID aims to boost tourism, increase overnight stays, drive economic growth and boost marketing strategies. Talking about the impact of these funds, the Mayor of Florence, Andrew Betterton, affirms, “As our tourism funding grows, our city’s exposure will also grow, allowing the beauty and vitality of Florence to be shared beyond our borders. I am confident that our city will continue to shine as a premier destination for North Alabama.”
Media Release/City of Florence
