If You Build It, They Will Come: Infrastructure As a Tourism Strategy at @MACoCon

With a new multi-state Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement and local agencies focusing their own infrastructure plans on sustainability for tourism and economic growth, government agencies are quickly realizing they need to be developing projects with future viability in mind. Building a community that attracts visitors and businesses, while preserving the local landscape for year-round resident is vital. An upcoming 2025 MACo Winter Conference panel will feature experts from Western Maryland to the Eastern Shore discussing what local agencies are doing to make big improvements that benefit nearby communities and their economic prospects, particularly in tourism.

Title: If You Build It, They Will Come: Infrastructure As a Tourism Strategy

Description: Infrastructure is the foundation of a thriving tourism economy. From well-connected roads and scenic trails to modern marinas, parks, event spaces, and broadband access, intentional investments can boost local tourism while serving residents year-round. This session will explore how counties can plan and build infrastructure that supports sustainable tourism growth, revitalizes communities, and enhances quality of life. Speakers will also touch on how climate change is shaping tourism infrastructure needs—highlighting ways to design for long-term resilience in the face of rising seas, shifts in weather patterns, and evolving visitor travel trends.

Speakers:

Mac Campbell, Executive Director, Baltimore Convention Center
Ava Richardson – Director, Office of Sustainability, City of Baltimore
Tommy Royther – Sustainability Coordinator, Wisp Resort
The Honorable Pete Lesher – Chief Historian and Ambassador, Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

Moderator: The Honorable Sharon Green Middleton – Vice President, Baltimore City Council

Date/Time: Wednesday, December 10, 2025; 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

MACo’s Winter Conference, “Local Leadership, Lasting Impact: Shaping What’s Next,” will be held at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Hotel in Cambridge, MD, on December 10-12, 2025.