Our City: Elizabeth’s Tourism Boom with Jennifer Costa
Guest: Jennifer Costa, President of the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce & CEO of the Elizabeth Destination Marketing Organization (EDMO)
In this episode of Our City: Stories That Shape America, Mayor J. Christian Bollwage sits down with Jennifer Costa to explore the rapid growth of Elizabeth’s tourism industry and its rising role on the global stage. Costa, who launched the city’s tourism office in 2015, explains how Elizabeth transformed from an under-recognized destination into a thriving hub for international travel, economic development, and cultural storytelling.
The conversation highlights Elizabeth’s strategic assets — including name-brand hotels, Newark Liberty International Airport’s new Terminal A, and a powerful historical identity framed through the city’s slogan, “It all started here.” Costa details how the tourism team is preparing for two major moments: the America 250 celebration and the FIFA World Cup 2026, both of which will bring unprecedented attention and visitors to the region.
Throughout the episode, viewers learn about Elizabeth’s marketing campaigns abroad, partnerships with local businesses, international outreach efforts, and the creation of a new Tourism Ambassador program designed to elevate civic engagement and visitor hospitality.
Episode Highlights
- Elizabeth’s 350-year history as the first permanent English settlement in New Jersey.
- The launch and evolution of the Elizabeth tourism office since 2015.
- Marketing strategies for America 250 and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- Leveraging Elizabeth’s industrial heritage: Singer Sewing Factory, Central Railroad of NJ, shipping & manufacturing.
- International tourism outreach across Poland, Portugal, Colombia, Brazil, and more.
- Local business engagement through storefront enhancements and group dining programs.
- Development of the Tourism Ambassador volunteer certification.
- World Cup logistics comparable to hosting “42 Super Bowls” in one metro region.
