The Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office, within the Office of the Governor, announced today that The Woodlands Township has been recognized by Travel Texas as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community after completing the multi-step certification process. Earning this designation shows the commitment of Visit The Woodlands to further develop tourism as an economic growth strategy, boost local job creation, and draw more visitors to their community 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 Woodlands Township and Visit The Woodlands 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.”
FILM & TOURISM FRIENDLY
The Woodlands Township is now a Film Friendly Texas and Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community.
“The Woodlands Township has long been a jewel in the Texas crown, and becoming a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community confirms it,” said Senator Paul Bettencourt. “Coupled with their status as a Film Friendly Texas community, The Woodlands has shown tremendous leadership in developing tourism as an economic growth engine that benefits the entire community and is ready to welcome the world. It is a privilege to represent part of this Township, and I congratulate Chairman Brad Bailey, Nick Wolda, the Visit The Woodlands team, and all the local partners who have worked to make The Woodlands a premier destination that strengthens both our regional and state’s identity and economy.”
“With over $555.4 million in annual direct visitor spending, The Woodlands stands as one of the most economically vibrant communities in Texas,” said Representative Steve Toth. “This designation is a testament to a community that welcomes visitors, supports local jobs, and continues to set the standard for economic vitality in our region.”
ABOUT THE TOURISM FRIENDLY TEXAS COMMUNITY
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.
ABOUT TRAVEL 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.
