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Officials pleased with Memorial Day turnout on Lake Cumberland Melodie Phelps News Editor Lake Cumberland was the center of attention Memorial Day weekend, as officials around the area watched and waited to see how the lower lake level would affect tourism numbers. The results were good, as more than 223,000 visitors came to Lake Cumberland over the long weekend, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. "Last weekend was a great way to start the tourist season. We are very encouraged with the number of visitors and hope this continues to build throughout the season," said Wayne County Judge-Executive Greg Rankin. "The local economy appeared very vibrant and strong, which was certainly a concern with all the publicity about the lower lake levels. Hopefully, we can continue to work together and make this the place to be in Kentucky." The 2007 tourism season and its effects on the local economy were a major concern after lake levels were dropped earlier this year to allow work on Wolf Creek Dam, but a unified effort by several different agencies appears to offer promise for the remainder of the season. "I'm thankful to our governor's office, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the Lake Cumberland Corps of Engineers and of course our local people. We want and need to capitalize on every tourism dollar that comes from the lake. We take tourism very seriously and will continue to market Wayne County as a premiere destination spot on Lake Cumberland," said Rankin. The local economy is affected in several different ways by tourism dollars. Gas, groceries, lodging and souvenirs are just some ways, but Rankin appreciates the extra visitors for another reason. "Last year alone Wayne County government received over $200,000 in tax dollars from lake visitors, which helps provide valuable services to our local citizens," he said. Rankin also noted that ramp extension work continues at 13 sites throughout the county and will be complete in the near future. "Our county ramps are so important to our local people and continue to be a high priority in this administration. Often times our local citizens are overlooked during tourist season and we're doing everything we can to change that," said Rankin. Add a comment |
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