NEWPORT, RI  - Tropical Storm Irene put a dent in Rhode Island’s tourism industry, forcing many people across the country to alter or cancel plans to visit the Ocean State last weekend. 

Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) joined with local businesses and city officials to try to help ensure tourism bounces back in time for Labor Day. 

One of the challenges many hotels, restaurants and businesses face in the wake of the storm -- especially from out-of-state visitors – is the perception that things are still shutdown.  Tourism officials in Newport are trying to get the word out that the city is open for business.

“Tourism is vital to our economy, and I want to help spread the word that our world-class beaches, restaurants, hotels, and attractions are open for business,” said Reed.  “Crews are working around the clock to restore power to every community.  If you are unsure about someplace, call ahead.  But again, I want to reassure people, especially out of state visitors, that this is a great time to come visit, spend your money in Rhode Island, and enjoy Labor Day weekend.”

“From inception, our Congressional delegation has provided tremendous support.  Senator Reed and his staffers have been in constant contact with our office to check on our well- being and status of  the recovery effort. Together with our local business partners Newport is experiencing the true sense of community as we all work together to restore services.  Knowing that  local, state, and federal policy makers are working with us has  given us great comfort,”  stated Newport City Manager, Edward F. Lavallee.  

“We want to let potential visitors to Newport County know that we are up and running,” says Jody Sullivan, Executive Director of the Newport County Chamber of Commerce.  “The hospitality industry is the second largest employer and is an important economic engine for Rhode Island.  Labor Day is the last big weekend of the summer season, and we are looking forward to welcoming visitors.”

Tourism and hospitality is Rhode Island’s second-largest industry, according to The Rhode Island Tourism Division, supporting over 80,000 jobs and generating more than $3.6 billion for the state’s economy.

After the meeting in Newport, Reed travelled to Bristol to meet with business owners whose power was recently restored.