Jul 11, 2025
NYSTIA staff, friends and colleagues were on hand for the opening of Greene County's new Visitor Center on July 3, 2025. The full press release is linked below, but in particular I wanted to share the remarks of Patty Austin - they reflect both the heritage and the future of tourism in Greene County. - Bob Provost
Remarks on the opening of the new Greene County Visitor Center from
Patty Austin, Tourism Director at Greene County Economic Development:
"Good Morning Everyone and welcome to the grand opening of the new Great Northern Catskills of Greene County Visitor Center! We’re proud to open a state-of-the-art visitor center that not only showcases the best of our region but ensures every traveler, regardless of ability, feels welcome. Conveniently located right off the NY State Thruway Exit 21, this gateway is designed to inspire exploration, support local businesses, and make every visit an experience to remember. We encourage all of our Tourism business partners to stop in, say hello, and check out our new facility for themselves.”
"ln 1609, Henry Hudson sailed these waters and unknowingly discovered a region that would become one of America's most beloved destinations. With its majestic mountains, sweeping river views, and rich cultural legacy, our home has captured the hearts and imaginations for generations. Greene County has long been known as "America's First Vacation Land." In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the Historic Catskill Point was a bustling gateway for visitors arriving by Dayliner steamboats from the city."
"In the 1940s, local family-run motels and resorts formed the Greene County Resort Association, proudly declaring: "We're glad you are here! Not long after, the Greene County Tourism Office was created, because our community understood a powerful truth-that tourism wasn't just part of our economy, it was our economy."
"Why is this important and why did the people come here? They came in search of clean air, natural beauty, and the warm hospitality of our mountain resorts. And that spirit of welcome still lives on today. Today, tourism continues to be the backbone of job creation, small business growth, and community revitalization. The new Visitor Center you see today is more than just a building-it's a gateway. A place to inspire, to inform, and to welcome guests from across the country and around the world."
"So today, as we cut this ribbon, we honor our past and invest in our future. To every partner, every supporter, and every guest-thank you.
And in the words of those who came before us: We're glad you are here."
For the full release and remarks from other Greene County officials, use this link.