A newly released study that took a comprehensive look at the Maryland Heritage Area Authority and found that the 13 Heritage Areas across the state generated more than $2.4 billion in economic impact! The study was completed by the consulting firm of Parker Philips Inc. and is now available online.
Maryland Heritage Areas are valuable economic contributors to the regions in which they operate. The partnerships they create and facilitate, and the efforts put forth to attract visitors, create economic development, and preserve the culture, history, and assets of their regions truly make a difference in local communities. In 2019 alone, Maryland Heritage Areas generated $2.4 million in economic impact, hosted over 22.6 million visitors, supported 33,815 jobs, and generated $319.8 million in tax revenue.
In a press release about the release of the report, Governor Larry Hogan praised the program, saying: “Maryland’s investment in MHAA is generating a valuable economic impact on the region and helping support the development of livable communities across the state. Through our rich network of heritage organizations, we are able to connect visitors – and Marylanders – to the stories and places that helped compose and conserve the Maryland experience.“
Preservation Maryland agrees wholeheartedly with the Governor about the benefits of Maryland’s Heritage Area program, and we are pleased to see that the Governor’s FY22 budget includes full funding for the Maryland Heritage Areas.