An Act Concerning A State Ecotourism Map.
The implementation of this bill is expected to boost local tourism by providing an organized and easily accessible platform for residents and visitors to explore the state's offerings. By highlighting local attractions and their features, the state can promote outdoor tourism and bolster its economy through increased visitor traffic. This initiative also encourages municipalities and organizations to submit their attractions for inclusion, further fostering community involvement in promoting regional resources.
SB00132, also known as the Act Concerning A State Ecotourism Map, aims to establish a digital resource to enhance the promotion of Connecticut's agricultural, recreational, and natural attractions. The bill mandates the Department of Economic and Community Development, in partnership with the Departments of Energy and Environmental Protection and Agriculture, to create and maintain an interactive ecotourism map titled 'Live Here, Love Here'. This online platform would serve to identify and showcase various attractions, such as farms, hiking trails, and parks, which are open to the public.
While the bill presents a positive move toward the enhancement of ecotourism, there may be points of contention regarding the resource allocation for its development and maintenance. Legislative discussions could revolve around the adequacy of funding and support for the effective promotion of local attractions, as well as any administrative challenges that may arise in the application process for attraction eligibility. Ensuring equitable representation of attractions and that smaller, possibly underfunded municipalities are included may also raise concerns.