PARKERSBURG, WV (November 25, 2008) – It appears that travelers are continuing to make their way to the Greater Parkersburg area despite the economic downturn.

Greater Parkersburg Convention & Visitors Bureau President Steve Nicely recently reported that hotel room nights sold in Wood County is up 2% for August through October of 2008 compared to 2007. Hotel tax collections for Wood County has also increased 1.5% year-to-date (January through October) in 2008, equating to $9,280 in additional revenue.

“We attribute the up tick these past few months to several factors,” Nicely said. “The innovative grant fund sponsored by the Wood County Commission has enabled the CVB to attract new sporting events and in turn generate more room nights sold. The CVB advertising campaign this year has also been much more extensive. We have focused our energy on individuals who have expressed interest in the area previously and diversified with both our print direct mail pieces and online media.”

Tourism officials believe that traveling will remain important but will be on a smaller scale in 2009.

“People are still going to travel but will be looking for ways to cut the cost of a trip,” Nicely said. “That bodes well for our area. Our cost of lodging, meals, and attractions is significantly below the national average. We are truly a travel destination bargain. Those are the kinds of things people will be looking for as they plan their trips in the future.”

To learn more about the Greater Parkersburg CVB or area information visit www.GreaterParkersburg.com

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