The commission heard a report that an American Junior Golf Association event staged in the region produced an estimated $398,000 in economic impact and 440 hotel nights, according to figures shared by the commission’s executive director.
Why it matters: Commissioners said the event demonstrated the county’s potential to attract multi‑state youth sports tourism and that properly marketed facilities could provide repeat business for local hotels, restaurants and retail.
Bob, executive director, reported AJGA statistics to the commission: “There was over — there was 440 nights of hoteling during that period…20 states were represented, 257 visitors total, 96 players in the field. The total economic impact was $398,000.” He said the impact covered both Northumberland and Lancaster counties and noted Indian Creek Yacht and Country Club’s unanimous vote to pursue hosting future AJGA events.
Commission members said the event underscores the value of promoting recreational assets and improving visitor services, and flagged the need to capture detailed “bridal data” (reporting/data from AJGA) that could better quantify lodging, food and sales tax effects. Bob said he is awaiting additional AJGA data to refine the estimates.
Ending: Commissioners suggested using the AJGA example when presenting property‑use options to the Board of Supervisors and when targeting grants or marketing investments that could grow sports and heritage tourism.