Chairman and members of the committee, thank you for the opportunity to provide testimony on agritourism and shore tourism and the economic impact for the region. We appreciate the opportunity to share our perspective on how New Jersey’s tourism industry has fared over the past year and the opportunities that lie ahead to grow this vital sector of our state’s economy.

Tourism has long been one of South Jersey’s most important economic drivers, supporting countless small businesses, creating seasonal and year-round jobs, and generating essential state and local revenues. From our world-renowned beaches to our thriving farms and wineries, tourism touches every corner of our region. Over the past year, the Jersey Shore has continued to experience strong summer seasons, with visitors drawn to its family-friendly beaches, vibrant boardwalks, and unique local culture.

Beyond the coast, agritourism has become an increasingly important part of South Jersey’s tourism landscape, particularly in Burlington, Salem, Gloucester, and Cumberland Counties. Family-owned farms, wineries, and farm markets offer authentic New Jersey experiences that attract visitors throughout the year, extending the tourism season well beyond the summer months.

Atlantic City remains the anchor of South Jersey’s tourism and entertainment economy. As Atlantic City goes, so goes the region. However, there are emerging challenges that could have significant implications for the local economy. The New York State Legislature has authorized up to three casino licenses for downstate New York, including New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County. As Atlantic City continues its efforts to diversify its economy and strengthen non-gaming attractions, policymakers must be mindful of how increased gaming competition in nearby states could impact Atlantic City’s economic recovery and the broader regional economy. The city’s casinos are already competing regionally for customers, all while facing rising costs of doing business. Any state policy decisions should recognize this delicate balance and avoid actions that could undermine the city’s competitiveness.

Looking ahead, major global and national events will create extraordinary opportunities to showcase New Jersey and drive tourism growth. The FIFA World Cup in 2026 is expected to bring millions of visitors to the region and generate substantial tourism spending. South Jersey is uniquely positioned to benefit from this global event given its proximity to both Philadelphia and the Meadowlands, where games will be played. With its abundance of hotel rooms, restaurants, and attractions, South Jersey is well-equipped to welcome international visitors seeking experiences beyond the games.

The State should take every opportunity to promote and support local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to our beaches, boardwalks, wineries, breweries, and historic landmarks. Because New Jersey, and particularly South Jersey, already welcomes millions of visitors each year, our region is prepared and eager to serve as a destination for first-time visitors during this once-in-a-generation event.

Similarly, the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026 will provide another powerful platform to highlight New Jersey’s deep historical significance, especially in South Jersey communities that played pivotal roles in the American Revolution. With thoughtful planning and collaboration among tourism boards, historical sites, and local governments, these celebrations can drive both immediate visitation and long-term interest in heritage tourism.

Finally, while we have recently seen important investments in South Jersey’s transportation networks, public transit access remains a challenge for many workers and visitors. CCSNJ commends Governor Murphy’s recent announcement of new initiatives, including the expansion of the electric bus fleet in Camden, the launch of a new bus service connecting workers between Vineland and Atlantic City, and the expansion of microtransit options for underserved communities. These are positive steps forward, but continued investment is essential to ensure that both residents and tourists can easily access all that our region has to offer.

In closing, the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey appreciates the Committee’s focus on tourism and its economic impact. We look forward to continued growth as we prepare the region for the exciting upcoming events that promise to showcase all the region has to offer.