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River Realm asks Lancaster for $25,000 to expand "Do the Loop" tourism campaign
Summary
River Realm told the Lancaster County Board it seeks $25,000 for FY27 to support regional tourism, including an app, digital kiosks and three grant-backed initiatives branded "Do the Loop," "Tide to Trail" and "Where the Wild Things Are." Lancaster County accounts for about $83 million of the region's reported $155 million tourism impact.
Susan Cochrell, representing River Realm, asked the Lancaster County Board of Supervisors on March 26 to continue annual support with a $25,000 FY27 allocation to sustain regional tourism marketing and new visitor tools.
Cochrell said a modest $3,000 reduction from last year's county allocation would still sustain work the organization calls high-value: their mobile app has nearly 1,500 downloads and about 48,000 total sessions; the River Realm platform now shows 8,500 users and 75,000 page views since launch. Cochrell also cited a regional visitor-spending estimate of roughly $155 million across three jurisdictions and said Lancaster County's share is about $83 million.
Sharon Phillips outlined "Do the Loop," a curated on-the-water itinerary that connects marinas, waterfront towns and public access points to encourage longer stays, more overnight stays and increased spending in small towns. The initiative targets Chesapeake Bay boat cruisers and regional trailers, and includes plans for targeted digital advertising, influencer partnerships and six touchscreen kiosks purchased with grant funds and intended for regional placement.
Cochrell said River Realm captured multiple small-state grants this calendar year that will flow into fiscal 2026 and 2027; three programs tied to outdoor recreation each have a $10,000 VTC grant with a cash match. She also said the group has bought six digital kiosks with grant funds, four of which will be on the county side of the river.
Board members asked about governance and partner roles; Cochrell said the "big four" decision makers are Lancaster, Kilarnick, Tapahanic and Middlesex economic development authorities, with smaller players invited to participate in campaigns such as restaurant week. Board members indicated general support during Q&A and thanked the presenters.
Next steps: River Realm will provide grant names and numbers on request and follow up with county staff about kiosk siting and matching requirements.
