AUSTIN – The Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office within the Office of the Governor today announced the City of Huntsville has been recognized by Travel Texas as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community after completing the multi-step certification process. Earning the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation shows the commitment of Visit Huntsville, TX to further develop tourism as an economic growth strategy, boost local job creation, and draw more visitors to their community and to Texas from across the nation and around the world.
“Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “Travelers to and within Texas generate almost $200 billion in annual economic impact and support 1.3 million jobs across the state. Every region of this great state offers endless opportunities to experience the natural beauty, rich history, and true Texas hospitality that draws visitors to our communities. I congratulate the City of Huntsville and Visit Huntsville, TX on earning this designation. All Texas communities are encouraged to apply to become a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community to further grow local tourism and jobs across our great state.”
Huntsville is now a Film Friendly Texas and Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community.
“With its deep historical roots, inviting atmosphere, and residents who take pride in welcoming visitors, Huntsville is highly deserving of this designation,” said Senator Charles Schwertner. “The community offers a beautiful setting and a memorable experience for all who come to explore it.”
“Huntsville’s designation as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community is well-deserved and reflects the hard work of local leaders, businesses, and residents who make our community a place people want to visit,” said Representative Trey Wharton. “This recognition highlights what those of us in Huntsville already know — that our community takes pride in welcoming visitors and sharing the history, culture, and character that make Huntsville such a special place to live and visit.”
“The City of Huntsville is proud to be recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas destination,” said City of Huntsville Mayor Russell Humphrey. “This certification reflects the dedication of our staff, residents, and businesses in making Huntsville a welcoming place for visitors. Tourism plays a vital role in our community, enhancing the visitor experience. We look forward to continuing to share all that our community has to offer.”
“Being recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified destination reinforces Huntsville’s commitment to growing tourism in a way that feels authentic to our community,” said City of Huntsville Tourism Manager Tracy Chappell. “This certification celebrates the people and places that make our city special and recognizes the care we put into welcoming visitors and sharing our story.”
The Tourism Friendly Texas Community program is open to local governments or non-profit organizations that serve as the lead entity for tourism promotion and development efforts. Benefits of the designation for tourism entities seeking certification on behalf of their community include the opportunity to strengthen or establish relationships important for tourism development, educate local leaders on the importance of tourism to the state, identify and prioritize locally driven strategies, and learn more about opportunities provided by Travel Texas and other state government programs available to support both communities and the travel and tourism industry. For more information on the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community program, visit: gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas
The mission of Travel Texas in the Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office within the Office of the Governor is to enhance and extend local economic development efforts by marketing Texas as a premier travel destination in out-of-state and international markets, generating non-Texan travel to Texas, and creating revenue and jobs for local communities and the state.
