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Aurora area tourism expenditures grow 3 percent in 2015

AURORA - The Aurora Area Convention & Visitors Bureau said travel and tourism in the organization's ten communities grew in 2015, with expenditures exceeding $163.5 million, a 2 percent increase from 2014.

In addition, the industry affected more than 1,300 jobs in 2015, a 3 percent increase from 2014, and local tax receipts from tourism in the Aurora Area reached $3.11 million in 2015, a 5 percent increase over 2014.

"The Aurora Area has positioned itself for continued growth in the tourism industry. A greater focus on reaching the regional traveler and group sales initiatives continue to drive visitation to the Aurora Area," said Cort Carlson, executive director of the Aurora Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. "Our collection of world-class attractions, shopping, entertainment and outdoor recreational options makes the Aurora Area an ideal travel destination."

The Illinois Department of Commerce's Office of Tourism recently announced that the tourism industry in Illinois achieved continued growth in 2015, with expenditures topping $37 billion, a 2.6 percent increase from 2014. In addition, the industry created over 10,000 new jobs in 2015, a 3.5 percent increase from 2014. The jobs and revenue generated by Illinois tourism industry supports local communities and the growth of Illinois' economy.

"Illinois has something for everyone to enjoy, from world-class museums and galleries, historic sites, a rich cultural arts community to professional sports, outdoor recreation and beautiful vistas," said Cory M. Jobe, Director of the Office of Tourism. "Our tourism and hospitality industry are Illinois' greatest champions, drawing not only new visitors, but repeat travelers as well, in order to support and grow our local economies."

The Aurora Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is the official destination marketing organization serving the ten communities of Aurora, Batavia, Big Rock, Hinckley, Montgomery, North Aurora, Plano, Sandwich, Sugar Grove and Yorkville.

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