Over $21 million will be given to local governments and organizations to fund tourism projects throughout Wisconsin.
On Wednesday, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers announced that $21.9 million in grants will be awarded to 27 local governments and organizations through the Tourism Capital Investment Grant Program for major tourism-related projects across the state that help promote, sustain, or increase its tourism industry.
More than 25% of the money will go to Dane County and Wisconsin Dells Visitor Center and Convention Bureau.
Wisconsin Dells Visitor Center and Convention Bureau received $3.5 million to assist in developing an entertainment plaza for the public, which is estimated at $5.5 million in total. According to the report, this is the highest amount offered through the tourism grant program.
According to officials, the Elm Street Plaza will bring many visitors and boost businesses throughout the downtown Wisconsin Dells area.
“We’ve prioritized major investments in Wisconsin‘s tourism industry because it’s at the core of our local economies, helping to promote local festivals and events, support small businesses, restaurants, and hotels, showcase our outdoor recreation opportunities, and so much more,” Gov. Evers said.
From Green Bay to Hayward to Wisconsin Dells, these capital infrastructure projects will help ensure Wisconsin‘s tourism industry–and all the industries that depend on it—continue to be a strong part of our economy.
The city of Merrill Parks and Recreation Department will also receive a $140,000 grant to acquire 70 acres of land near its 950-acre Memorial Forest. In recent years, the city of Merrill has invested in multi-use pedestrian and bike trails which increased visitors to the park.
In south-central Wisconsin, $971,360 was invested in the American Players Theatre of Wisconsin in Spring Green, $145,650 for the Olbrich Botanical Society, and $187,465 for the Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce.
Since 2020, Gov. Evers has allocated more than $200 million to support travel, tourism, lodging, and entertainment industries, according to a release.
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Did you hear about the cool news? Governor Tony Evers is granting over $21M to fund Wisconsin tourism! It’s awesome to see these initiatives boosting our state’s attractions and economy.