AAA Offices Nationwide Driving Visitors Toward Vermont

AAA OFFICES NATIONWIDE DRIVING VISITORS TOWARD VERMONT

Montpelier, VT: September 28, 2011: As the fall foliage season shifts into high gear, AAA is working with Vermont's tourism industry leaders to disseminate information nationwide through its travel offices. The resources will be used by AAA's travel counselors to help direct motorists and encourage them to travel the Green Mountain State.

Tom Williams, Regional Manager of AAA Northern New England, noted, "We have a golden opportunity to provide up-to-date, practical information to members across the country. In the great majority of areas hit by the storm, visitors will find roadways with smooth pavement and bright lines. It is our role to make sure that people who are interested in coming to Vermont get the information they need."

In a communication sent earlier this week to all AAA offices in the United States, AAA states, "In late August, the State of Vermont made headlines across the nation as flood waters from Hurricane Irene caused major damage to the states highways and bridges. Within weeks after Irene, Vermont rebuilt at an unprecedented rate. Now 95% of Vermont roads are open, with final touches being made every day."

Vermont Department of Tourism & Marketing (VDTM) Deputy Commissioner Steve Cook works with the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and Ski Vermont on the "Foliage Force," a team which has been promoting Vermont's vibrant foliage season in the wake of Irene. Cook noted, "The foliage season has begun, and all indications are that it will be as vibrant and beautiful as ever. We are delighted that AAA has taken a proactive role in informing people about Vermont, and our recovery from the storm. This is a testament to AAA's confidence in our state, and the resilience of our tourism businesses."

The bulletin refers travel counselors to road repair resources provided by VTrans, as well as planning information supplied by VDTM, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and Ski Vermont. It concludes that AAA Northern New England branch offices in Montpelier, Rutland and Williston are well prepared to help motorists navigate the state of Vermont.