Spring break setting tourism records in Lee County; law enforcement stepping up patrols

As spring break gets into full swing this week, Lee County is seeing record-breaking numbers for tourism, with people are pumping more money into our local economy.

Hotels are seeing a lot of guests this year, and they’re anticipating more for this week. Hotel revenue was already up 80% from 2020 to 2021. While some of that increase is likely due to decreased travel during the pandemic, the pandemic has changed the concept of ‘season’ in Southwest Florida.

Snowbirds who usually flock back up north are staying here longer or not leaving at all, and Lee County Commissioner Brian Hamman says all of this combined might make for a record spring break. “The rates they’re able to charge because there’s such a high demand to get into our market is even higher. Which, ultimately, that’s great for local businesses. The more money they make from out-of-towners, that’s more new money that can be paid to local employees in our area,” said Hamman.