HARRISBURG – Gov. Edward G. Rendell’s proposed 2008-09 state budget includes $33.9 million to further develop the tourism economy in the commonwealth, which is responsible for more than 600,000 jobs.
“With Governor Rendell’s support, we have been able to showcase the state’s unique experiences and rich heritage as a world class destination for tourists,” said Mickey Rowley, the Department of Community and Economic Development’s deputy secretary of tourism. “We have developed award-winning publications that bring to light a wealth of tourism experiences and we have turned everyday Pennsylvanians into online celebrities on VisitPa.com.”
The 2008-09 state budget includes the following tourism related appropriations:
• Marketing to attract tourists: $15.3 million
• Regional marketing initiative grant program: $9 million
• Matching funds grant program: $7.6 million
• Tourism product development: $2 million
“Beyond the annual appropriation for tourism promotion, this administration has provided an unprecedented level of support to bolster the state’s tourism economy,” Rowley said. “During a lean state budget year, Governor Rendell has increased funding for destination marketing organizations by $1 million.”
Since 2003, the Rendell administration has provided the following funding for tourism related initiatives:
• Marketing to attract tourists: $ 72 million
• First Industries Fund grants and loans: $26 million for 37 projects in 47 counties
• Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program: $223.9 million for 60 projects in 22 counties
“In addition to Governor Rendell’s progressive support for tourism, he has provided the necessary capital to create additional tourism opportunities through the First Industries Fund and the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program,” Rowley said. “From the Lake Erie Arboretum to the African American Cultural Center in Pittsburgh, the governor has delivered on his commitment to making the state enticing to travelers while expanding the list of must-dos and must-sees for residents.”
The First Industries Fund was created to provide grants, loans, and loan guarantees to non-profit organizations and for-profit business enterprises to undertake projects relating to the promotion and development of agriculture and tourism within Pennsylvania.
RACP is a grant program administered by the Governor’s Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic and historical improvement projects.