WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Roger Dow issued the following statement in praise of President Obama’s plans to transform travel in America by investing in our nation’s rail system:

The U.S. travel community applauds President Obama for embracing the power of travel. His vision and leadership will benefit the millions of Americans who travel each day – and will benefit our nation by helping to strengthen our economy and create jobsfrom coast to coast. The travel industry – which includes transportation providers, destinations, lodging, attractions and travel service providers – is the fifth largest employer in the United States and generates one in eight American jobs.
“President Obama has shown that travel is a priority for his Administration – from meeting with industry leaders last month to today’s announcement. He clearly understands that travel powers our economy, and we hope this is the first of many steps to increase and improve travel to and within the United States.
“U.S. Travel’s ‘Change the Debate’ campaign in 2008 challenged presidential candidates to recognize the economic value of travel and focus on needed improvements to all modes of transportation, and we are pleased that President Obama is delivering on his commitment to improve transportation. As he noted in today’s announcement, our outmoded air travel system remains a challenge, and we hope this remains a priority for this Administration as well.
“President Obama has clearly responded to our call to action, and the travel industry looks forward to working as partner with the him and his Administration as America sets off on its ambitious effort to create a world class travel system.”

Previously the Travel Industry Association, the U.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representing all components of the $740 billion travel industry. U.S. Travel’s mission is to promote and facilitate increased travel to and within the United States. U.S. Travel is proud to be a partner in travel with American Express. For more information, visit .

Kristy Chandler
202.408.2172
U.S. Travel Association