The Upper Delaware Scenic Byway (UDSB) is a non-profit organization, which advocates for the maintenance, enhancement and promotion of New York State Route 97. UDSB appreciates The River Reporter’s publication of the “Explore the Scenic Byway” glossy booklet, which was an insert in the May 7 issue.

Much like the color brochure that we offer to the public, your booklet provided maps and descriptions highlighting the historical, cultural, natural and most interesting features of communities in the counties of Orange, Sullivan, and Delaware that are located along the state-designated byway route. The vision statement for the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway speaks to enhancing the river valley’s economic climate through a careful promotion of the highway and its resources which will enable our communities to retain their character and quality of life, while reaping the economic benefits of tourism promotion.

A 2014 study by Fairweather Consulting, commissioned by the Town of Lumberland and funded by the Upper Delaware Council, Inc. and Upper Delaware Scenic Byway, Inc., analyzed visitation data. It estimates that 283,000 to 341,000 leisure travelers are attracted to the Byway annually. This generates approximately $17 to $21 million of total tourism spending. The study also compares the amount of estimated spending to the amount of retail selling in the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway region to help identify potential, untapped economic opportunities for businesses to meet those visitors’ needs.

A link to that study, as well as to a wealth of information about the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway’s unique story and amenities is available online at www.upperde lawarescenicbyway.org.

Nadia Rajsz

Upper Delaware Scenic Byway, Inc., Chairperson

Town of Lumberland, NY