INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis is making a comeback.
Mayor Joe Hogsett said the city is ready to welcome visitors and reopen.
“Research shows that nearly 50% of Indiana residents plan to take a trip in July and August,” said Hogsett. “Many of them are planning for a trip within driving distance, and we want to ensure that it’s a trip to visit Indianapolis.”
Hogsett said Marion County has steadied the rate of infection.
He said because of the pandemic the hotel occupancy is at 7% when it would typically be at 70%. He said businesses have lost customers and tourists have stayed home during the pandemic hurting the Indy’s tourism industry.
Visit Indy said around 50% of tourism employees are unemployed, which is around 40,000 households.
To help Indy, Hogsett announced a $1 million regional and statewide awareness campaign, “You’ve Earned It.” He said it’s a partnership with Visit Indy and utilizes federal coronavirus relief funds.
“It will encourage visitors to take advantage of our reopened economy,” said Hogsett.
He’s urging people to still wear masks and social distance so Indianapolis can stay open.
“After a period of frustration, a period of mourning, a period of learning, we are coming back,” said Hogsett. “Indianapolis is coming back.”
