BRANDON — A well-known travel planning website has named Brandon the “Best Place to Escape to in Vermont.”
The link takes readers to a page arranged alphabetically by state. The Brandon blurb appears under “Vermont” and a photo of Neshobe Falls on Center Street, and gives a shout out to a popular local greenhouse.
“A relaxed getaway through all four seasons, this charming town is also the gateway to the Green Mountains. Moosalamoo National Recreation Area has provided solitude and inspiration to the likes of Robert Frost, who had a home on the northern side that you can still visit. Forests, waterfalls, lakes and streams — what’s not to love about this inviting, secluded and serene haven? The walkable downtown of Brandon takes life at its own pace. Case in point, the charming Woods Market Garden, which carries over 50 delicious kinds of fresh produce during the season.”
Lyle Jepson is Dean of Entrepreneurial Programs at Castleton University and executive director of the Rutland Economic Development Corp, or REDC. He said Brandon has worked hard to establish an image and a lifestyle that appeals to everyone, locals and tourists alike, namely through the Gateways to Brandon project launched last year. The project highlights the recreational and cultural opportunities in and around Brandon.
“Brandon has a long history of being strategic in taking advantage of the many assets that make it a magnet for visitors and residents,” Jepson said in an email statement. “Ranging from a wealth of talented artists to a desire to market outdoor adventure based opportunities, the Gateways to Brandon project is gaining recognition. Add to this the yearly events planned by the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, great food venues, the continued revitalization of the Brandon Town Hall, the thoughtful planning associated with the long-awaited Route 7 redesign and Brandon has become a town that has taken control of its own destiny.”
REDC works with business leaders, legislative leaders and community members to promote business and community development in Rutland County, including promotion of local economic drivers such as schools, industry and population growth.
Brandon Economic Development Officer Bill Moore was thrilled but not surprised by Expedia’s spotlight on Brandon.
“We’re receiving national recognition for what we have always known here in Brandon,” Moore said. “Of the many that will escape to vacation and recreate in the best town in the state, a few will take the leap and realize the joys of living in such a caring, vibrant and wonderful community.”
Moore said attracting new people to town is an important part of economic development, and he often hears a repeated story from people who have chosen to move to Brandon.
“The story is told so many times,” he said. “‘I visited here and loved it so much that I chose to make it my home.’ Adding folks to our community has helped to create business opportunities, provide stability in the housing market and increased our tax base. Be it the surprisingly diverse cultural and recreational opportunities, the schools or the water, escaping to Brandon is becoming a national trend!”
Jepson agreed, with a nod to Brandon’s municipal government and spirit of community
“It is the spirit and energy of Brandon’s leaders and citizens that has made the town a leader in support of the growth of our entire county,” Jepson said. “As Expedia has pointed out, Brandon is a destination location well worth exploring. Visitors will not be disappointed.”
To visit the Expedia listing, head online to viewfinder.expedia.com/features/best-place-escape-every-state/#Brandon.