JIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

*This data is based on the number of cars through the entry gate us ing a standard multiplier of 2.5 peop le per car.

Selig Center for Eco nomic Growth, UGA

79% 21%

PRIVATE FUNDING $285,050 ,000 PUBLIC FUN DI NG $82,690, 00 0 $361,740,000

ECONOMIC IMPACT ON THE STATE

$639M IN SALES $369M IN PRODUCTION

$218M IN INCOME

5,489 JOBS $18M IN TAX REVENUE

Selig Center for Eco nomic Growth, UGA

There was a time when Jekyll Island was famous for its exclusivity. A place where only those with significant means stepped ashore. However, after the State of Georgia’s purchase in 1947, Jekyll became a destination like no other, bringing forward its equally fascinating Stateera history. In 2022, the Jekyll Island Authority marked 75 years of Jekyll Island State Park to commemorate its evolution and to recognize its shining future. The Authority acknowledged this historic milestone by re-branding many of its public-facing assets like its iconic entrance billboard and incorporating this commemorative branding throughout its communication channels, historic programming, retail merchandise and island-wide events. The year kicked off with the Seventy-Fifth Soirée hosting state officials to replicate the nostalgia of the first public opening, complete with a synchronized swimming performance and a spectacular fireworks display. Later in the year, community members enjoyed the Seventy-Fifth Street Party with a vintage car show, stateera entertainment, and the unveiling of the island’s first mural art display. In addition to a collection of museum exhibits and tours, the year closed out with a ceremony honoring Governor M.E. Thompson with a commemorative time capsule dedication with State officials. More than 3.5 million visitors crossed the island’s causeway last year to enjoy its beauty and recreation, take in its rich history, and celebrate the State of Georgia’s profound vision for Jekyll Island all those years ago.

After several years of consultant-led assessments including by the National Golf Foundation, the Jekyll Island Authority adopted a 2022 Golf Improvement Plan to serve as a guideline for ongoing, phased golf course improvements over the next several years. Recommendations include necessary improvements to course greens, renovation of the Clubhouse, restoration of the historic Walter J. Travis-designed Great Dunes course, as well as many others. The recommendation also includes converting former golf course acreage towards conservationfocused initiatives like the enhancement of a wildlife corridor and the adoption of a “first of its kind for Jekyll Island” Greenspace Ordinance. The ordinance includes the establishment of a Greenspace Preservation District to provide for the creation, preservation, and maintenance of certain open spaces, including golf courses and related facilities, and other unimproved areas on Jekyll Island. This ordinance is a significant point of progress for conservation initiatives by further clarifying the protection of Jekyll Island’s natural resources and character.

In operation for less than 5 years, Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum celebrated several milestones in 2022 including surpassing $1 million in admission and retail revenue, a record for the JIA’s historic resources department. As the historical and cultural hub for the island, the museum welcomed more than 50,000 visitors through its doors, a record last reached in 1987. With a return to full capacity after two years of reduced programming, the facility also introduced several new programs highlighting lesser-known historical landmarks around the island, and opportunities to meet historical characters through behind-the-scenes experiences. Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum also joined the celebration of the State Era anniversary with two rotating lobby exhibits recognizing the State of Georgia’s purchase and what became of the island in the decades to follow, now a destination for everyone.