The downtown effort has been a combined effort of many groups to achieve desired development goals and objectives. Over the past three decades, Swiss Bear worked with many civic groups and non-profits who joined in the effort to expand the tourist trade. Tryon Palace placed new emphasis on marketing to increase the number of visitors. The New Bern Historical Society, New Bern Preservation Foundation, New Bern Area Chamber of Commerce and the Craven Arts Council and Gallery joined the effort. A National Register and local historic district was established and a Historic District Commission created. Historic neighborhoods were rehabilitated and old home tours were developed. The Chamber of Commerce opened a Visitors Information Center which led to the creation of a Tourism Development Authority and a hotel/motel room occupancy tax to support tourism programs. Swiss Bear and the City became participants in the National Main Street Program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation which emphasized the preservation and restoration of the City’s historic assets. Swiss Bear supported and worked with the Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture Extension Service to construct a Farmer’s Market in the downtown area which operates year round. As tourism numbers grew and meeting space was in demand, the County constructed the New Bern Riverfront Convention Center in 2000. In 2010, visitor spending generated $108.3 million.
Susan Moffat-Thomas
Executive Director
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