Read more about the article Tourism, Infrastructure, and Economic Growth Take Center Stage at #MACoCon
Tommy Royther
Economic Development / MACo Events / News You Can Use / Tourism / Winter Conference
Tourism, Infrastructure, and Economic Growth Take Center Stage at #MACoCon

At the MACo Winter Conference, county leaders and partners examined how infrastructure investments can drive tourism growth while supporting residents and long-term economic vitality. The session focused on how counties plan projects that strengthen local economies, protect natural assets, and remain viable as climate conditions and travel patterns change. Baltimore City Council Vice President Sharon Green Middleton moderated the discussion and guided a wide-ranging conversation during “If You Build It, They Will Come: Infrastructure As…

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December 16, 2025
Read more about the article Talbot’s Cassandra Vanhooser Named Maryland Tourism Person of the Year
County News / Tourism
Talbot’s Cassandra Vanhooser Named Maryland Tourism Person of the Year

More than 200 tourism and hospitality professionals from across Maryland gathered in College Park from November 17–19 for the 44th Annual Maryland Travel & Tourism Summit (MTTS), hosted by the Maryland Tourism Coalition (MTC). The three-day summit brought together public and private sector leaders for education, networking, and collaboration focused on strengthening Maryland’s tourism economy. “Tourism is an integral part of our State economy, and it’s back stronger than ever,” said Ruth Toomey, Executive Director…

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December 4, 2025
Read more about the article If You Build It, They Will Come: Infrastructure As a Tourism Strategy at @MACoCon
Economic Development / Environment / Planning and Zoning / Tourism / Winter Conference
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…

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December 1, 2025
Read more about the article Revised Bay Watershed Agreement Could Help Protect Local Tourism Industry
Environment / Tourism / Winter Conference
Revised Bay Watershed Agreement Could Help Protect Local Tourism Industry

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced recent revisions to the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement to improve wildlife populations, reduce water pollutants, and restore habitat. With a localized approach, officials hope to protect and sustain economic opportunities including local tourism industries.  According to a recent press release, Maryland representatives joined officials from around the Mid-Atlantic region to put forth a revised Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement that includes firm timelines, required pollution reductions, and ambitious goals…

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November 24, 2025
Read more about the article Carroll County Launches Agritourism Passport Program
Agriculture / County News / Economic Development / Environment / Tourism
Carroll County Launches Agritourism Passport Program

Carroll County Economic Development has launched the 2025 Carroll County Agritourism Passport Program! This inaugural passport program is a guide to discovering the best of Carroll County’s agritourism — from local farms and fresh foods to unforgettable seasonal experiences. The program is intended for residents, visitors, children, adults, individuals, or families. The passport encourages exploration, supports local farms, and showcases the region's rich agricultural heritage. There are over 20 participating sites across the county. From…

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June 13, 2025
Read more about the article Howard County’s Savage Mill Bucks Support Small Business and Summer Tourism
County News / Economic Development / Tourism
Howard County’s Savage Mill Bucks Support Small Business and Summer Tourism

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball launched the Savage Mill Bucks program this week to bolster local businesses and boost tourism in Historic Savage. The initiative provides $10 vouchers for residents and visitors to spend at more than 70 small businesses in Savage Mill during the summer months.   The County committed $10,000 to fund approximately 1,000 vouchers. The program runs from June through August 2025, offering a direct incentive to shop local and explore Savage…

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June 3, 2025
Read more about the article Howard Unveils New Public Transportation Trolley Service
County News / Tourism / Transportation and Public Works
Howard Unveils New Public Transportation Trolley Service

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball unveiled the transformational Old Ellicott City (OEC) Trolley, a new public transportation service coming to historic Ellicott City’s Main Street starting Saturday, May 17th. Inspired by the historic Trolley streetcar that ran along Main Street for more than 50 years during the 19th and 20th centuries, the new OEC Trolley will better connect residents, employees, and visitors to businesses and historical resources in historic Ellicott City. "Together, we all share…

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May 22, 2025
Read more about the article MD Launches 25 in 2025 Statewide Parks Challenge
Environment / Parks and Recreation / Tourism
MD Launches 25 in 2025 Statewide Parks Challenge

The Maryland Park Service has launched the 25 in 2025 Adventure Challenge, inviting individuals and families to complete at least 25 themed activities across Maryland’s state parks by November 15, 2025. The program showcases the park system's rich natural and historical variety, from island hikes and lighthouse visits to disc golf and geological discoveries. Participants can mix and match challenges, and while registration isn’t required, those who donate $25 will be eligible for a prize…

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May 22, 2025
Read more about the article Hello Harford Brings Data to Destination Marketing
County News / Tourism
Hello Harford Brings Data to Destination Marketing

Harford County gathered more than 120 hoteliers, museums, attractions, and other tourism-related organizations on Thursday for the launch of “Hello Harford,” the county’s new approach to tourism using innovative technology, strategic marketing, and inclusive collaboration. Tourism marketing is funded by the county’s 6% hotel tax. The launch event at Swan Harbor Farm in Havre de Grace was organized by the Harford County Department of Economic Development, which is overseeing Hello Harford under the direction of…

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May 8, 2025
Read more about the article Panel Talks Boosting Local Economies Through Tourism
County News / Economic Development / Parks and Recreation / Tourism / Winter Conference
Panel Talks Boosting Local Economies Through Tourism

Maryland Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) lead the way in showcasing all Maryland has to offer to our residents and visitors from other states. At MACo's Winter Conference, a distinguished panel highlighted the vital role of Maryland's DMOs in the state's economic growth. With a focus on innovative infrastructure projects and a strong commitment to enhancing visitor experiences, these organizations are helping elevate Maryland as a premier destination for residents and out-of-state travelers. The Honorable Jefferson…

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December 19, 2024
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