Courtesy WBONTV Correspondent Andy McDonald
The 2021-2022 fiscal year has been challenging for the city of Berea Business and Tourism Development Department, but despite emerging from the global pandemic, tourism managed to tally some accomplishments, said officials.
During the director’s report at last week’s business meeting, Donna Angel took a moment to reflect on the tourism-related achievements of the department, including:
- The Chestnut Street Pavilion was funded, completed, and is now being rented out for public use.
- Tourism fully funded the Silver Creek Bike Park, which has already drawn cyclists from out of town who have staged mountain bike riding classes.
- The Mitchell Tolle Building and Berea Hotel were paid off at the urging of Commissioner Charles Arnold, saving tourism money on interest.
- Tourism helped dedicate the intersection of two national bike routes, putting Berea at the bicycle crossroads of America.
- The Berea Craft Festival returned after a pandemic hiatus, bringing guests into town from around the United States and giving local artists a market to sell their work.
- Tourism helped dedicate Boone Trace Health Trail, a collaboration between Berea College and the city of Berea to provide more recreational opportunities for both citizens and visitors.
- Hosted six regional conferences.
- Welcomed 30 motorcoaches visiting Berea, facilitating presentations by local musicians and artisans.
- Revived the Berea LearnShops in the fall of 2021, staging 18 days of courses that served over 300 participants.
- Staged and promoted Mayor’s Merry Mingling Event at Christmas.
- Supported 300 local events in Berea, whether it was community happenings, job fairs, or promotions for small businesses.
- Gained recognition for Berea in 14 different publications, some of which touted Berea as an ideal destination for a hometown Christmas or as a great “staycation” site.
- Staff participated in television interviews as the city was promoted by 12 TV anchors, re-enforcing Berea’s unique identity as “the Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky.” Additionally, Berea was highlighted on four other TV shows.
- Tourism supported three festivals and the Berea Christmas Parade, events that brought in visitors, boosting local commerce.
