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The Bedford County Visitors Bureau has announced the launch of its five-year Strategic Tourism Development Plan (FY2025-30) -- a comprehensive roadmap to expand tourism, strengthen the local economy, and elevate Bedford County's profile as a premier travel destination in Pennsylvania.
With the hotel room tax increasing to 5% effective Jan. 1, the plan outlines how new and reserve funds will be strategically invested in marketing, tourism infrastructure, branding, and visitor experience initiatives across the county.
"Our goal is to ensure every dollar reinvested in tourism produces visible, measurable results for Bedford County's residents, businesses, and visitors," said Brooke Kelly, executive director of the Bedford County Visitors Bureau. "This plan is rooted in accountability; it's about growth we can track and results we can share."
A centerpiece of the Strategic Plan is the Tourism Growth Initiative. This multi-phase reinvestment program expands the county's cooperative marketing fund from $50,000 to
potentially up to $300,000 annually over five years, subject to limitations of the Tourism Promotion Act.
"This program ensures that the benefits of tourism growth are shared throughout Bedford County," Kelly said. "It gives our towns, small businesses, and attractions the tools to grow together."