NW Chamber awarded $150k for 'branding' tri-town region

CHESTERTOWN | Expansion of tourism and commerce are expected for the towns of Chester, Horicon and Johnsburg in upcoming years due to a recent approval of a grant. The North Warren Chamber of Commerce has been awarded a $150,000 grant of Warren Vounty Occupancy Tax revenue, obtained by the staff of the Northern Forest Center. The grant funds are to be invested in advertising and promotion of tourism as well as attracting new residents for the three towns by developing a "brand" for the northern Warren County area, to boost the region's commerce, vitality and sustainability. North Warren Chamber of Commerce President Craig Leggett predicted this week that the branding effort supported by the grant would have a considerable impact on the area. "This grant is a game-changer for the whole region," he said. The grant is to fund a collaborative effort between Horicon, Chester and Johnsburg volunteers to develop and implement what identifies the region — the three towns' unique features, including natural assets, outdoor recreation, historic architecture, and community life, Leggett said. "If you have lived here for most of your life, you know who we are and what we have to offer," he said. The grant is to pay for the planning and development of the branding to be employed in media releases, advertising and promotion, he said. Leggett said that Drew Cappabianca, owner of The Hub bicycle shop and tavern, conceived the branding initiative years ago when he served as the North Warren Chamber's president during a term that ended Dec. 31, 2023. Leggett continued Cappabianca's effort when he took on the Chamber's presidency in January 2024. Leggett subsequently lined up support for the initiative from officials and business owners in the three towns and recruited the Northern Forest Center to draft a proposal submitted to Warren County officials. Leggett said the next step in implementing the initiative is to engage a group of people representing businesses and organizations in the three towns to "plan the best way of launching the branding initiative." He said that for years, northern Warren County area has needed to raise awareness of its assets and ambiance. "The county's tourism efforts have for many years focused on visiting Lake George, but here in northern Warren County, we also have so much to offer," he said. "We really hope this initiative will kindle and invigorate pride in where we live and work as well as increase sustainability through boosting tourism and encouraging people to relocate here," he said.

Signup for our newsletter

NW Chamber awarded $150k for 'branding' tri-town region

COMPANY

CUSTOMER SUPPORT

SUBMISSION FORMS

BEYOND THE NEWS