Decline in Canadian Tourism Threatens Burlington’s Waterfront Economy
As summer approaches, Burlington’s waterfront businesses face a worrying downturn in Canadian tourism, crucial for the local economy. General Manager and Deputy Harbor Master Rob Peterson warns that the decline could adversely affect shops and restaurants that depend on summer visitors from Canada. Canadians represent a significant portion of Vermont’s tourism, constituting around 5% overall and nearly 30% in the northern regions, contributing to the state’s $4 billion tourism sector.
Recent policy changes under the Trump administration have led to heightened border security and tariffs, triggering a notable drop in Canadian visits to the U.S. Statistics indicate a 32% decrease in road trips by Canadians across the border, a trend that has persisted for three consecutive months. Heather Pelham, commissioner of the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing, expressed concern over this reversal, emphasizing the negative impact on local businesses that had begun to recover from pandemic-related losses.
Business owners like Al Gobeille of the Shanty On The Shore have reported a noticeable drop in Canadian clientele, often identifying trends based on the consumption of regional favorites, such as French wine. Josée Côté from Montreal noted that her family has chosen to vacation locally due to the current tensions.
With many businesses along Burlington’s waterfront reliant on the influx of Canadian visitors, the reduction in cross-border traffic raises alarm bells. Peterson reported a significant decrease in requests for summer boat slips, mirroring concerns from event organizers and hoteliers about diminished reservations. Local leaders fear that ongoing political friction could result in a "lost decade" for the tourism industry, making immediate improvements essential for the economic health of this scenic region.
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