Breaks Park Generates $9.95 Million Regional Economic Impact in 2015

Breaks Interstate Park provided an $9.95 million economic impact across southeast Kentucky and southwest Virginia in 2015, according to a Virginia State Park system study. The park recorded 357,993 day-use and overnight visitors last year, and posted the fourth greatest economic impact among state parks in Virginia.

“Our local economy has been gravely impacted by the downturn of the coal market. In response, we are seeking new and innovative ways to reposition our area as a tourism destination and it is encouraging to see that those efforts are bearing fruit,” said Superintendent Austin Bradley.

The economic impact study takes into account not only the park’s revenue, but the direct and indirect impact of tourism dollars generated by the park into the surrounding localities. That includes money visitors spend on items such as food, gas, and supplies while traveling.

Breaks Park continues to be a viable and integral contributor to the local economy, said Bradley. He added that as one of the few recreational parks in the coalfields, Breaks Park also offers vital outdoor facilities to the region, and helps to foster an active, healthy lifestyle during a time when obesity rates and other health related problems are on the rise.

Breaks Interstate Park is located on the Kentucky – Virginia border and is accessed by State Route 80. Commissioned by the U.S. Congress in 1954, it encompasses more than 4,600 acres is one of only two interstate parks in the United States. For more information about the park, please visit www.BreaksPark.com.