Experience Fayetteville launches ‘ambitious’ master plan
by February 27, 2025 9:25 am 517 views
Experience Fayetteville recently released its first Destination Master Plan, which provides a vision for the next decade of tourism development, according to a news release.
The plan’s destination trends show Fayetteville had about 7.1 million visitors in 2022, including 3.6 million overnight and 3.5 million day visitors. The visitors “injected an estimated $600 million in spending into the local economy. Nearly three-fourths (72%) of these visitors were repeat visitors to Fayetteville.”
Sara Meaney of consultant Coraggio Group led the planning process, comprising surveys, assessments, listening sessions, and one-on-one interviews. Meaney presented the plan to Fayetteville Advertising & Promotion Commission, the governing body of Experience Fayetteville. Meaney and Jennifer Walker, interim CEO of Experience Fayetteville, presented the plan to stakeholders from Fayetteville hotels, restaurants and attractions.
Elvis Moya, chair of the Advertising & Promotion Commission, wrote the plan’s introduction:
“Experience Fayetteville’s Destination Master Plan looks ahead and sets forth an ambitious vision for the next decade,” Moya wrote. “It is the culmination of extensive research, community engagement, and a commitment to keep Fayetteville’s distinct character at the heart of its growth. This plan aims to ensure that Fayetteville continues to thrive as a premier destination, balancing the needs of visitors and residents while fostering economic vitality and community pride.”
The plan also shows the city’s population growth and tourism assets. The city’s population has nearly tripled since 1990, and the number of students at the University of Arkansas has risen to more than 33,000. The city’s assets include trails, UA facilities, and downtown. According to the report, “lodging may need to expand to fully benefit from these assets.”
Experience Fayetteville is searching for a CEO to fill the vacancy left when former CEO Molly Rawn became the Fayetteville mayor. Walker said the Destination Master Plan would provide a framework for the new CEO to build upon.
Link here to find a copy of the plan.