GREEN BAY (NBC 26) — More than $20 million in grants will go to tourism projects across Wisconsin, including projects in Green Bay and Door County, Gov. Tony Evers announced Wednesday.
Gov. Evers announced $21.9 million in grants will be awarded to 27 local governments and organizations through the Tourism Capital Investment Grant Program for major tourism-related capital improvement projects across the state that help "promote, maintain, or bolster Wisconsin's tourism industry."
“We've prioritized major investments in Wisconsin's tourism industry, because it's at the core of our local economies, helping to promote local festivals and events, support small businesses, restaurants, and hotels, showcase our outdoor recreation opportunities, and so much more,” said Gov. Evers. “From Green Bay to Hayward to Wisconsin Dells, these capital infrastructure projects will help ensure Wisconsin's tourism industry — and all the industries that depend on it — continue to be a strong part of our economy.”
According to a statement from the Governor, the Tourism Capital Investment Grant Program is funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act, and grants can be used to build, expand, or maintain buildings, travel-related infrastructure, or public attractions.
The grants awarded range from $29,000 to the maximum of $3.5 million, and due to significant interest in the program, additional funding was allocated to support more projects across the state, Gov. Evers says.
The Governor said the Door County Maritime Museum will receive a $1.75 million grant to help expand their Sturgeon Bay location with the Jim Kress Maritime Lighthouse Tower. This expansion will provide an additional 20,000 square feet, doubling the museum's exhibit space and offering 10 floors of educational exhibits to highlight Wisconsin's rich maritime history.
As part of promoting the grant funding, Gov. Evers made an appearance in Green Bay on Wednesday to present a check for $2.5 million to the Experience Greater Green Bay Corporation. The money will help construct the new Experience Greater Green Bay Visitor Center, which Gov. Evers says will bolster tourism marketing in the greater Green Bay area and provide visitor services to the six million annual guests to the region.
A list of grant awardees and additional information can be found on the program website.
