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 $50 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.
