The Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce has appointed Keeli Allen to serve as its Director of Tourism. Allen, who has been employed by the Chamber for nearly half-a-decade, will bring her organizational leadership, commitment to customer experience, and passion to support Lawrence County’s tourism & hospitality industry to promote the Visit Lawrenceburg brand on a full-time basis.
“When families visit Amish Country, David Crockett State Park, or come to town for a ball tournament, they also dine at our restaurants, shop at our small businesses, and stay at our hotels. Not only does tourism produce a tangible economic impact realized by retailers through sales and by our local governments through tax revenues, but it also provides tourists with great experiences that lead to lifelong memories and an enhanced community perception,” explained Ryan Egly, Lawrence County Chamber President & CEO. “Tourism is an important part of our economic development strategy and Keeli is well-prepared to lead this effort.”
Over the past three years, Visit Lawrenceburg has successfully procured more than $215,000 in grants that have allowed for projects such as wayfinding signage, the bi-annual publication of an 80+ page visitor’s guide, new City/County maps and brochures, digital marketing, brand representation at regional festivals and events, and advertisements in regional and national.
According to the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, tourists spent $28.9 billion statewide in 2022 generating $2.9 billion in state & local tax revenues. Direct visitor spending in Lawrence County was $28.7 million, an 11% increase from 2021 to 2022. This generated more than $1.2 million in local tax revenues. The highest spend categories by visitors in 2022 were food & beverage, transportation, accommodations, and retail.
“I love Lawrence County and am honored to serve as Director of Tourism. Visitors are seeking authentic experiences and we have that in abundance thanks to our tourism & hospitality industry,” stated Allen. “I want to thank Lawrence County Government and the City of Lawrenceburg for understanding the importance of tourism in our community and trusting the Chamber to lead these efforts. I look forward to supporting our attractions, welcoming visitors, and helping grow this sector of our economy.”
Allen assumes her new role on Monday, July 1.
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About the Chamber
The Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce is a network of businesses, industries, local governments, utilities, and private citizens that are committed to improving the quality of life in Lawrence County, Tennessee through economic development, community development, tourism marketing, and workforce development.
Media Contact
Kristin Doss, Marketing Manager
kristin@lawcotn.com
