About the
Ohio Rail Tourism Association
A
recent informal survey of railroad-related attractions in Ohio shows
there are approximately 30 such organizations that are visited by
an estimated 3,030,000 tourists a year. Using standard rates of
measuring tourist dollars spent (admission, gas, food, lodging,
gifts, et cetera), these railroad visitors generate $200 million
for Ohio’s economy. Realizing that this industry was more valuable
than perceptions might seem, several of the individual rail attractions
discussed forming a mutually supportive organization to promote
rail tourism.
Developed
with the cooperation and support of the Ohio Rail Development Commission,
the Ohio Rail Tourism Association was created in 1999 to bring together
rail passenger operators and excursion sponsors, railroad companies,
historical societies, related companies, and assemblies of individuals
to promote and promulgate the Ohio rail tourism industry through
education, information, and cooperation by members of mutually benefiting
projects.
The
Board of Directors and interested members meet quarterly with the
spring meeting being the annual meeting. This is the largest of
the meetings with seminars, special events, and the annual banquet
and election of trustees and officers. It is at this event that
the organization recognizes and honors the recipients of the annual
awards.
Membership
is open to tourist railroads, excursion operators, depots, railroad
historical groups, rail museums, attractions that involve rail displays,
rail festivals, any business involved in tourist rail activities (i.e., restaurants,
suppliers), and individual supporters. Associate membership is available
for $25 per year.
Benefits
include a listing on this Web site and links to your site, access
to the latest information regarding rail in Ohio, participation
in cooperative marketing opportunities, educational opportunities
related to rail tourism, and being an advocate for the industry
in Ohio.
