Celebrating the International Drive Resort Area
The tourism industry and convention markets are back in full swing, and, for more than 35 years, the International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce has led the way with game-changing initiatives to ensure the success of the I-Drive Resort Area as a world-class resort destination. Maria Triscari, president and CEO of the International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce, discussed I-Drive’s initiatives in transportation and development that will ensure I-Drive’s future success as a world-class resort destination.
What transformations have occurred in the I-Drive Resort Area?
The International Drive corridor has experienced incredible growth. We now have more than 130 hotels, which equates to 45,000 hotel rooms. We are now home to 40% of all the hotel rooms in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. I-Drive also has hundreds of restaurants of every cuisine; 900 retail outlets; six major theme parks; 45 family-friendly attractions; and the Orange County Convention Center, which is world-renowned and provides a $3 billion economic impact. We are a major economic engine for the Southwest region, and we are essential to the tourism market.
Why is completing the master plan at the Orange County Convention Center crucial for future success?
Conventions have come back strong to prepandemic levels. Meetings and conventions are back, and they are here to stay and will continue to grow. The comeback has been even greater than we anticipated. We are very confident on the future success of the convention market. That is why we are excited to revisit the Orange County Convention Center master plan that was put on hold due to the pandemic. The enhancements at the convention center are essential to stay competitive in a very competitive market. The Orange County Convention Center creates a $3 billion annual economic impact to the region. We are the premiere convention center in the nation and must stay on the forefront to ensure future success.
The International Drive Resort Area currently employs more than 75,000 employees. What type of opportunities are available in the hospitality industry?
The wonderful thing about the tourism industry is that there are opportunities for everyone regardless of age, education, language or prior work experience. You can start at an entry level position and become management level and beyond. Many executives started at entry level and excelled. It’s a great time to become a part of this exciting industry that provides good pay and great benefits. In addition, many of our companies provide scholarships to colleges to help enhance their employees’ life skills and educational levels.
The I-Drive Corridor has a very strong economic outlook, and it’s a very exciting time for the resort destination. What types of initiatives have been implemented?
New attractions like Epic Universe will open in 2025, and, because of the chamber’s Right Rail initiative, mass transit from Orlando International Airport to an International Drive station will become a reality. The Sunshine Corridor will include a mass transit station at I-Drive to service both Sunrail and Brightline. This new rail line is great news for residents, employees and visitors alike. It will be a mass transit system that will service everyone.
What transformations has the International Drive Resort Area undergone?
I-Drive is such a success because it continues to transform. The 1980’s attraction Mercado is now ICON Park, a $300 million investment; Friday’s Front Row is now Mango’s and Hollywood Plaza; and the Orange County Civic Center is now the Orange County Convention Center, a world-premiere convention center.
What has been the impact of I-Drive Chamber initiatives like the Tourism Orlando Leadership Program?
One of the most successful programs that the chamber has created is the highly acclaimed Tourism Orlando Leadership Program that is now celebrating its 23rd anniversary. This incredible 11-month program enables participants to learn about the vast components and aspects of the tourism industry, from marketing to operations to behind-the-scenes tours and special presentations at our major theme parks and facilities like the Orlando International Airport, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, and the Orange County Convention Center. We are delighted with the tremendous success of this program that is now a staple in our tourism industry, with more than 1,000 people graduating to date, earning their “Ph.T.” in tourism.
How does the I-Drive Resort Area give back to the community?
I-Drive is a community of generosity. The International Drive Resort Area leaders believe in giving back. Major stakeholders like Harris Rosen have donated millions of dollars through their philanthropic work. I-Drive representatives care about their community and proudly support many charitable organizations through philanthropic programs, events and monetary donations as well as through donating goods and services to those in need.
What does the future hold for I-Drive Resort Area?
The I-Drive Chamber is a very strong and active chamber with a tremendous vision for the future and great political leaders to lead the way. All those things combined make our future very bright. As Abraham Lincoln once said, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” And that is what the International Drive Resort Area has done for more than 50 years. We just can’t wait to see what the next 50 years will bring.
For more information or to join the International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce, visit www.internationaldrivechamber.com.
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