The Mad River Valley was well represented at this year’s Vermont Tourism Day at the Statehouse, with a coordinated group of local business leaders and tourism advocates making the trip to Montpelier to engage directly with legislators and state officials.
The effort was organized by the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce, which brought together a cross-section of its membership to ensure the region’s tourism economy—and the businesses behind it—were part of the conversation.
Representing the Valley were Farrell Leo and Sean Kramer of the 1824 House, Ryan Donnelly of Hostel Tevere, Jeff Alexander of Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, Christa Bowdish of the Old Stagecoach Inn, and Eric Friedman of the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce. Molly Mahar, the president of Ski Vermont and a member of the MRV Chamber also presented at the press conference.
“Tourism remains a critical component of Vermont’s economy, generating an estimated $4.2 billion annually and supporting roughly 9% of the state’s workforce. Vermont Tourism Day provides an opportunity for industry stakeholders to meet with policymakers, share on-the-ground perspectives, and highlight the importance of continued investment in the visitor economy,” Friedman said.
“The goal is to make sure decision-makers understand how policies translate to real impacts for businesses and communities,” he added. “It’s also an opportunity to build relationships and ensure the Mad River Valley is part of broader statewide conversations.”
The day’s programming included remarks and discussions with state and industry leaders, including Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing Commissioner Heather Pelham, as well as other officials and tourism representatives. Speakers addressed topics ranging from marketing and economic development to workforce and infrastructure challenges.
In addition to attending formal sessions, members of the Mad River Valley delegation participated in committee hearings and informal discussions with legislators.
One issue that emerged as a key focus was the inconsistent enforcement of fire safety regulations, particularly as it affects lodging and hospitality businesses. Representatives from The Valley joined others from across the state in raising concerns and sharing experiences, helping to frame the issue as a broader statewide challenge.
Participants said the conversations underscored the importance of coordination and advocacy at the regional level. “The Mad River Valley has a strong track record of identifying issues early and working collaboratively to address them,” said Bowdish. “Events like this give us a platform to bring those concerns forward in a constructive way.”
The delegation also highlighted The Valley’s role within Vermont’s tourism landscape, pointing to its mix of independently owned lodging, outdoor recreation opportunities, and year-round appeal. Industry leaders note that Vermont is increasingly attracting visitors who stay longer and seek out more locally rooted experiences—trends that align well with what the Mad River Valley offers. Organizers said participation in events like Tourism Day is part of a broader strategy to advocate for local businesses while strengthening connections with state partners and other regions. “This is about making sure our community is represented and that our businesses have a voice,” Friedman said. “When we show up together, it has an impact.”
The Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce indicated it will continue to coordinate similar efforts in the future as part of its ongoing work to support and promote the region’s business community.
