Syracuse – New York State Assemblyman William B. Magnarelli (D-120th) and David Holder, President of the Syracuse Convention & Visitors Bureau (SCVB) announce key findings from the “Visitor Intercept Study.”

“Here in Central New York, tourism is a vital part of our local economy,” Magnarelli said. “It is imperative that we know how visitors spend their time, money and the purpose for their visit. Ultimately, this study shows us areas that we can focus on, where some work can be done and how we can provide the best experience for out-of-town guests.”

“The results from this study were truly eye-opening and somewhat unexpected,” Holder said. “It’s great news for Syracuse though – because we’re now armed with insightful information and data we can use as tools to bring more visitors, and ultimately dollars, to our destination.”

Commenting on the study results, Greater Syracuse Chamber of Commerce President Darlene Kerr said, “Assemblyman Magnarelli’s recognition of the importance of tourism to our economy, the need for this type of information and his leadership in securing the funding for the study are most appreciated. The information contained in the study results will help us all make Syracuse an even more inviting destination for visitors.”

Conducted in July, August and October 2007, the study found surprising trends in Central New York tourism from the types of travelers – business, leisure and convention – to how travelers spend their money while staying. Not surprising, however, is the way visitors are spending their time once they get here: most visitors enjoy Central New York’s shopping areas and districts.

“Syracuse has world-class attractions,” Magnarelli said. “We have unique shopping districts, restaurants and museums. Places like the Redhouse demonstrate why Syracuse is a destination city and why they should return.”

"We're taking what we've learned from the study and using it to build a strong future for our destination,” Holder said. “In fact, we have already jumped on the opportunity the results presented us, by creating a three-tiered destination marketing campaign, targeted at a specific audience, in specific geographic locations."

“Again, I am proud to have been able to provide the funding for this important and necessary study,” Magnarelli said.

"Now that we know the issues our communities are facing, we can make great changes, through educated and proactive decisions,” Holder said.

About the Syracuse Convention & Visitors Bureau

The mission of the Syracuse Convention & Visitors Bureau is to strengthen the positive awareness of the City of Syracuse and Onondaga County as a convention and visitor destination, to increase revenues and stimulate economic development and growth for the community.

About the Redhouse

Redhouse is a nonprofit cultural center, located in the trendy Armory Square district of Syracuse, NY. Our mission is to transform lives through intimate and distinct experiences in the arts. Redhouse presents and produces new works in theatre, film, visual art and music.