Delaware's grew by only 9 percent. Realistically, tourism has done well considering its stepchild status. But tourism has become a more competitive business. Nearby states continue to produce polished promotions and television advertising for their attractions. One argument against further promotion of the beaches is that we have so little room to expand and traffic has become nearly unbearable in some areas.
Studies show that only about half of Delaware's visitors use the beaches.
With recent additions like the Riverfront Arts Center, larger gambling venues and minor league baseball, there's plenty to promote. The consultants will unveil a five-year marketing study in May to guide the Tourism Office in its management of the visiting public. Let's not engrave that figure in stone. It might take much more to do it right. Both should be passed.