Travel and Tourism Board approves marketing boost

The Jackson Hole Travel and Tourism Board has authorized up to $200,000 from its 2017 emergency reserve fund to help offset last week’s closures at Teton Village and the loss of revenue to Teton County area businesses. Board Executive Director Kate Sollitt said the allocation includes $100,000 to be used for marketing and $100,000 for travel incentives. It will be used over the next 8 weeks to the end of the 2017 winter season. The storm resulted in a complete shutdown of Teton Village for 5 days and closed major access roads in and out of the valley. The airport also suffered an interruption of service. In addition, many residents were displaced, business suffered significant loss, and employees suffered loss of wages. The board voted unanimously to add funding to existing marketing efforts. The funds will boost media, marketing, and advertising in an effort to strengthen the rest of the winter season. The board uses lodging tax funds to promote travel and tourism in Teton County, Wyoming.