Albany, New York – September 2, 2016 – U.S. Congressman Paul Tonko (D-NY) today toured the Albany Marriott as part of the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s “Heart of the House” hotel tour program, where members of Congress visit a hotel in their district to gain insight on the industry’s commitment to community partnerships through local job growth, economic contributions and development opportunities.   

New York hotels play a vital role in strengthening the state’s economy, generating $102 billion in total business sales directly and indirectly and supporting nearly $8 billion dollars in tax revenue. As the third most populous state in the U.S., New York provided 764,000 jobs that were sustained by tourism activity in 2015, with a total income of $33.1 billion. Review more facts and figures on how New York State contributes to the economy and local jobs by clicking here. 

“Moving our local economy forward and investing in jobs have been top priorities since my first day in public service,” said Congressman Tonko. “Hotels are a unique partner in helping accomplish those goals and serve as an economic engine for the airport, the state capital, and our entire region’s emerging innovation economy. I am grateful to have spent time meeting the team at the Albany Marriot and touring the property as we discussed ways to improve and support this critical part of our community. Experiences like these are invaluable for me to bring back to Washington as Congress reconvenes next week.”

Today’s tour was led by Todd Reichelt, General Manager of the Albany Marriott. He was accompanied by New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association's President, Mark Dorr, and AH&LA’s Government Affairs Coordinator, Madeline Lee. 

“The hotel industry is made up of hardworking employees who serve all types of guests every day,” said Todd Reichelt, General Manager of the Albany Marriott. “Operating near the airport, we have a unique opportunity to be the face of the Empire State’s capital while also contributing to the local region’s economic footprint. We are proud to be in hospitality, which is a true business of people and appreciate Congressman’s Tonko’s emphasis on community development and job creation.” 

“Congressman Tonko understands the importance of supporting local businesses, and knows how essential the hotel industry is to New York State’s jobs and economy,” said New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association President, Mark Dorr. “We applaud his efforts to increase travel and tourism across the Capital District, while working on ways to promote economic growth and development so that this hotel community can continue to succeed.”
AH&LA engages with members of Congress on the “Heart of the House” hotel tours to provide an in-depth look at the career opportunities available as well as the economic and community impact of the lodging industry.
 

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Serving the hospitality industry for more than a century, the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) is the sole national association representing all segments of the 2 million-employee U.S. lodging industry, including hotel owners, REITs, chains, franchisees, management companies, independent properties, bed and breakfasts, state hotel associations, and industry suppliers. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., AH&LA provides focused advocacy, communications support, and educational resources for an industry of more than 54,000 properties generating $176 billion in annual sales from 5 million guestrooms.