The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) is partnering for a sixth consecutive year with the Tour de Georgia. As the presenting sponsor, GDEcD helps the Tour create special marketing programs which communicate its diverse assets and unique charm to visitors. With tourism being the second largest industry in the state, the week-long cycling event is one of the key events on the calendar to boost tourism revenues. Since 2003, the Tour de Georgia has attracted 2.8 million spectators and generated over $148 million in economic impact for the state of Georgia. “Over the past six years, the Tour de Georgia has become a real boon for the state,” said Ken Stewart, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development. “The combination of significant economic impact and worldwide cycling renown has made it a signature event. As the Tour moves to different regions of the state, I am proud that it will continue to show off Georgia hospitality at its best.”

Information about the Tour de Georgia will be available at Georgia’s 11 Visitor Information Centers across the state as well as in the new 2008 Travel Guide. To learn more about the host cities for the Tour de Georgia along with other Georgia travel destinations, visit www.ExploreGeorgia.org .