What you need to know
To qualify for the distinction, cities must send a letter of intent, fill out a questionnaire that asks questions about tourism funding, revenue and programming, and attend online training, according to Travel Texas’ website.
“Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies, supporting one in 11 jobs across Texas,” Abbott said in a Nov. 13 news release. “Travelers to and within Texas generated more than $193.8 billion in economic impact and supported 1.3 million jobs across the state in 2023.”
Remember this?
Community Impact previously reported that Visit Pearland, the hotel occupancy tax-funded agency that works to promote tourism in the city, has heavily invested in bolstering sports tourism.
Some of what it’s done includes securing a partnership with Triple Crown Sports to host the Ronald McDonald City of Lights Tournament, which had been previously held in Sugar Land for 30 years.
Visit Pearland Executive Director Tracy Rohrbacher said she felt the state’s recognition resulted from the city’s efforts to create “tourism-forward initiatives.”
“The positive impact of visitation on Pearland continues to be a driving force for economic growth,” Rohrbacher said. “I’m enthusiastic about what's to come in the future as we continue to champion Pearland’s unique experiences.”
One more thing
For more information on the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community program, visit gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas.
