Wisconsin tourism gets financial boost, $10M from ARPA funds
MILWAUKEE - Gov. Tony Evers was in Milwaukee on Tuesday, Aug. 3 pushing statewide tourism – a pitch much harder to make when coronavirus cases continue to climb.
While tourism is coming back, the governor announced additional help through federal relief funding; $10 million in Federal Rescue Plan money can be applied for by local governments or non-profit tourism groups to help support an industry looking to get back on its feet after a dismal year.
Tuesday's announcement is on top of $140 million in federal relief funds already announced for the state's tourism and entertainment industries.
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Summerfest is a month away and the Wisconsin State Fair is knocking on the door – huge tourism events that were put on pause because of the pandemic in 2020. Paddling along or soaking in some sun are preferable ways to spend a beautiful August day. Visitors, and the money they spend, are a huge part of the state's economy.
"Our goal with these funds is to not only make sure Wisconsin’s tourism industry continues to recover, but to ensure that we are building a strong future for the industry with infrastructure that helps to continue the growth for years to come," Gov. Evers said.
The administration said grants up to $3.5 million will be awarded to regional groups through the application process, eligible for projects like convention centers or travel infrastructure.
"Tourism is important for our economy, but it’s important for our neighborhoods and our families," said Lafayette Crump, commissioner of the Milwaukee Department of City Development.
Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward
Local tourism officials say the funds can help offset maintenance or capital improvement projects put on hold by the pandemic.
"I think this will help get some of that business back and able to get their doors fully open, back again, be able to welcome guests," said Claire Koenig with VISIT Milwaukee.
It's a continued investment that state hospitality groups applaud.
"Tourism is so critically important to Wisconsin, which is why having that investment made into tourism – which restaurants are a part of – is so critically important," said Kristine Hillmer, president and CEO of the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.
The head of the Hotel and Lodging Association told FOX6 News that his group applauds the investments, as it will take a collective effort to dig out of the mess left by the pandemic.
Despite the pandemic, a news release from the governor's office said Wisconsin’s tourism industry supported more than 157,000 jobs across the state and had a $17.3 billion impact on the state economy in 2020. So far in 2021, the industry is seeing recovery above 2020 numbers as travelers make up for missed vacations while reconnecting with friends and family.
Individuals and businesses can receive more information about the grants, including how to apply.
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