The Montana Department of Commerce today announced more than $1 million in grant funding was awarded through its Tourism Grant Program to strengthen local economies in 21 communities.
"These grants will serve 22 tourism and recreation projects across Montana, including unincorporated small towns, rural communities, and areas of known attractions to non-resident visitors," Commerce Director Scott Osterman said. "Not only will these funds help boost tourism locally, they will support good-paying jobs, another added benefit of increased visitor activity," Osterman added.
Tourism Grant Program funding recipients:
• The Musselshell Valley Community Foundation/Roundup Community Partners will receive $40,000 to construct a community branded welcome plaza and visitor information kiosk.
"Roundup Community Partners is so grateful to the Office of Tourism for their support of Roundup's first Welcome Plaza and Visitor Information Kiosk," said Theresa Doumitt, Roundup Community Partners Co-Chair. "Their partnership will enable an important step forward in the revitalization of our Main Street and recovery of our economy. This project will create an anchor development for Main Street and serve as a gateway to welcome visitors into the community," Doumitt added.
"On behalf of the Darby Rodeo Association, we would like to thank the Montana Department of Commerce for this award, the Town of Darby for the use of the facility, our partners that provided letters of support, and all of our fans for attending our events," said Amy Robbins, Darby Rodeo Association supporter. "With the addition of two sets of permanent bleachers, including handicap accessible seating, we will be able to provide our fans an upgraded seating experience and increase our capacity," Robbins added.
"The Yellowstone Shortline Trail Committee and Yellowstone Historic Center are thrilled to have the Montana Department of Commerce's support for the Yellowstone Shortline Trail through the Tourism Grant Program," said Ellen Butler, Yellowstone Historic Center Interim Executive Director. "Funds from the Tourism Grant Program will enable us to create a rolling, strolling museum along the rail trail through the development of professional interpretive signage that explores the unique history of the area, both natural and cultural," Butler added.
The Tourism Grant Program is funded by the 4% Lodging Facility Use Tax, commonly known as the "Bed Tax." Enacted by the 1987 Legislature, the Bed Tax is collected from guests of hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, guest ranches, resorts, short-term vacation rentals, and campgrounds. Eligible entities that may apply for tourism grants include cities, counties, non-profit organizations, and tribal entities based in Montana.
For more information about the Tourism Grant Program, visit MARKETMT.COM.
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