Grants to assist communities with tourism infrastructure assets
NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development announced today applications for the Tourism Enhancement Grant are now available for counties or cities to enhance or create new tourism infrastructure to increase economic impact.
“Tourism development is economic development. In many of our communities, tourism is the most important driver in the economy,” TNECD Commissioner Randy Boyd said. “With this grant, communities will be able to invest in key assets, from docks to pavilions to signage. We will work in partnership with the Department of Tourist Development to ensure that we help communities invest wisely and in ways that will get them the maximum return on this investment.”
“During my listening tour, leaders across the state told us tourism is a top priority that drives their local economy, and communities need assistance expanding and enhancing these assets,” Assistant Commissioner of Rural Development Amy New said. “As Team Tennessee, we want to be that partner in assisting them. We are excited to partner with our stakeholders as we continue to build thriving communities throughout Tennessee.”
“Tourism development and economic development go hand in hand,” Tennessee Department of Tourist Development Commissioner Kevin Triplett said. “As the partnership between our two departments continues to grow, we have an even greater appreciation for the support TNECD is providing through opportunities like this for tourism initiatives across the state.”
The goal of the Tourism Enhancement Grant is for cities or counties to improve and create local tourism infrastructure assets, such as wayfinding signage, stages, boat ramps, scenic pull-offs and public restrooms to improve their tourism economic impact. This grant will be available for up to $50,000 with a match requirement based on economic status. The grant is also eligible for up to $20,000 for counties or cities who have a desire to develop a tourism asset plan.
All interested local governments must submit their completed applications by April 18, 2016. Applications and additional information regarding the grant can be found at tn.gov/TourismGrant.
About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s mission is to develop strategies which help make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs. To grow and strengthen Team Tennessee, the department seeks to attract new corporate investment in Tennessee and works with Tennessee companies to facilitate expansion and economic growth. Tennessee is the only three-time winner of “State of the Year” for economic development by Business Facilities magazine. Find us on the web: tnecd.com. Follow us on Twitter: @tnecd. Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/tnecd.
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