The director, upon consultation with the council, shall develop a 10-year master plan for the growth of tourism for presentation to the Governor and the Legislature no later than February 1, 1979.

The plan shall include, but not be limited to, consideration of the following:

a. New Jersey’s need for additional job opportunities and for tax revenues;

b. The optimum distribution of the tourist industry throughout the State and the effect of such industry on the environment;

c. The upgrading and improvement of the facilities and services available to tourists in New Jersey;

d. The development of tourist destination areas attractive in appearance, manageable in terms of densities, and with wholesome recreational opportunities;

e. The protection and preservation of shoreline areas;

f. The providing of access to shoreline areas for tourists and the assurance of the rights of residents to the use of public beaches and public beach access areas, surfing and fishing sites, hiking trails, and other recreational sites and scenic areas;

g. The reconstruction, maintenance, and preservation of sites which have been important in New Jersey history and American history;

h. The promotion of various cultural and ethnic holidays, observances, and festivities and of understanding by visitors and residents of the social and cultural contributions of all ethnic groups and people residing in New Jersey; and

i. The desirability and the feasibility of creating a Department of Tourism.

L.1977, c. 225, s. 8.