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Benzie Joins Jersey, Pinellas, Jackson, Kittitas and More US Counties in Michigan, Illinois, Florida, North Carolina Upgrading Tourism Infrastructure To Welcome More International and Domestic Tourists, New Update What is Good To Know
Exciting things are happening in Benzie County, as it joins the ranks of Jersey County, Pinellas County, Jackson County, and Kittitas County, in Michigan, Illinois, Florida, and North Carolina. These counties are stepping up their game by upgrading their tourism infrastructure to cater to the growing demand for both international and domestic tourists. This huge boost in tourism investment is set to transform the landscape, making these destinations more accessible and attractive to travelers from all around the globe. From beachfront renovations to new trail developments, these counties are sparing no expense in ensuring that visitors have the best possible experience.
With the global tourism industry rebounding post-pandemic, these upgrades couldn’t come at a better time. Pinellas County’s lodging tax revenues are funding major improvements, while Jackson County is expanding its outdoor recreation facilities. Benzie County, in particular, is making a splash with trail paving and visitor center renovations, while Kittitas County is boosting accessibility through better transportation options. The investments being made across these counties are set to provide unforgettable experiences and welcome more international and domestic tourists than ever before. Read on to discover what makes these exciting updates truly transformative!
How U.S. Counties Are Transforming Tourism with Massive Investments: The Bold Moves That Will Redefine 2025 and Beyond!
Counties across the United States are breaking barriers, supercharging tourism, and turning their dreams into reality with bold new infrastructure projects. From beach restoration in the Gulf Coast to the revival of outdoor trails in Michigan, these counties are positioning themselves as the next big tourism hotspots. With federal funding pouring in, local governments are using innovative strategies to create lasting, tourism-driven growth. These counties aren’t just upgrading infrastructure — they’re changing the future of travel for millions of tourists.
| County / Region | Project / Funding Type | Amount | Source / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benzie County, Michigan | Trail infrastructure grants for Betsie Valley Trail improvements; includes paving miles of trail & accessibility enhancements | $491,000 in grant applications approved (plus match) | Local county board approved applications to MI DNR Trust Fund & DNR Passport Program for trail upgrades. |
| Benzie County, Michigan (Elberta) | Waterfront park development & beach‑to‑beach connectivity | $5.3 million grant (Land & Water Conservation Fund) | Village of Elberta awarded grant to develop waterfront park near Betsie Bay. |
| Jersey County, Illinois | Byway Discovery Center construction — visitor orientation & tourism centre | $10 million | State Capital Bill grant and county participation for a tourism centre at Piasa Harbor. |
| Pinellas County, Florida | Tourism tax allocation for infrastructure including beach renourishment, marina upgrades, capital projects | $127 million+ beach renourishment in 2025 | County funded multi‑million beach restoration via tourism tax revenue; ongoing tourism infrastructure planning. |
| Jackson County, North Carolina | Capital project allocation for tourism development (county TDA) | Approximately $1,000,000 in 2025–26 budget | Draft county tourism budget indicates dedicated capital funds. |
| Various Texas Counties | Local park and outdoor recreation improvements via competitive TPWC grants | Portion of $21.2 million statewide allocation | Texas Parks & Wildlife Commission distributed record grants to parks across 50 sites, many in county parks. |
| San Juan County, Washington | Lodging tax grant program (tourism facilities & events) | Program active with grants for facility improvements | County lodging tax funds support facilities/events enhancing tourism infrastructure. (San Juan County) |
| Manistee County, Michigan | Trail connector project linking communities and recreation nodes | $1.75 million grant project | Multi‑mile trail project funded via partners and EDA support—benefits broader tourism usage. |
| Kittitas County, Washington | Tourism strategic planning resolution | Plan adopted supporting tourism infrastructure alignment with local needs | Strategic plan sets priorities for county tourism infrastructure capacity. |
Mississippi Gulf Coast: $50 Million Investment That Will Change Everything
In Harrison County, Mississippi, the future of tourism is looking brighter than ever. With a $50 million beach restoration project backed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this county is redefining coastal tourism. The restoration will widen and reinforce the shoreline, creating safer, more accessible beaches for visitors. Along with this, outdoor recreation facilities, pedestrian access points, and visitor centres are receiving significant upgrades, ensuring that tourists have a top-tier experience.
Thanks to federal tourism funding through the American Rescue Plan and the EDA Travel and Tourism Program, the Gulf Coast is preparing to host more visitors and generate millions in revenue. This is a game-changer for local businesses, creating an economic boom that will ripple through the entire region. The message is clear: tourism is the future, and Harrison County is leading the charge. (Home.treasury.gov)
Benzie County, Michigan: Outdoor Adventure Meets Federal Funding for Tourism Growth
In Benzie County, Michigan, the Betsie Valley Trail is getting a major upgrade thanks to a $491,000 federal grant. This multi-use trail will be widened, paved, and made accessible to all, ensuring that tourists can enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the stunning landscape. These enhancements will draw in thousands of tourists looking for a top-notch outdoor experience.
The investment in Benzie County’s outdoor infrastructure isn’t just about trails — it’s about creating a comprehensive tourism experience. Local parks, waterfront areas, and event spaces are also being improved to accommodate the growing demand for eco-tourism. With these changes, Benzie County is positioning itself as the go-to destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Michigan.
Florida’s Lodging Taxes Supercharge Local Tourism Infrastructure
In Florida, counties like Hillsborough, Sarasota, and Brevard are using lodging tax revenue to fuel tourism growth. These taxes are directly funding new tourism infrastructure projects, such as beachfront park upgrades, marina developments, and pedestrian-friendly spaces. For example, Hillsborough County, home to the vibrant Tampa Bay area, is reinvesting in its waterfront and local events, all thanks to tourism-generated funds.
With $127 million earmarked for beach renourishment projects and capital improvements, Florida is showing the world how lodging taxes can create sustainable tourism that benefits everyone. The result? More tourists, more jobs, and a stronger economy. This strategy is changing the tourism landscape and proving that local investments can have global impacts.
Gulf Coast Rail Service Revival: Amtrak Brings Tourists to Coastal Counties
Amtrak’s Mardi Gras Service, which connects key destinations like New Orleans and Mobile, is a tourism game-changer for coastal counties. The service is drawing more visitors to areas like Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, and Biloxi, helping these counties tap into the booming tourism market. Gulfport’s economy is growing, thanks to increased rail traffic, making it easier than ever for tourists to visit the Gulf Coast.
With the revival of this rail service, coastal counties are capitalizing on an untapped market, attracting tourists who prefer rail travel over flying. This isn’t just about convenience — it’s about creating new tourism opportunities, from beachfront attractions to historical sites, and local businesses are already seeing the benefits. The Amtrak revival is making the Gulf Coast one of the most accessible and exciting destinations in the U.S. (En.wikipedia.org)
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: Fueling Tourism with Massive Transportation Investments
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is pouring billions of dollars into transportation projects that will directly benefit tourism. Counties like Harrison and Benzie are already using federal funding to improve accessibility to key tourist destinations. Whether it’s scenic byways, multi-use trails, or highway access to national parks, these projects are designed to boost tourism by improving transportation routes.
With billions of dollars allocated for infrastructure projects, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is helping counties create a connected, accessible, and tourism-ready America. The result? A tourism revolution that will see more tourists, more local spending, and long-term economic growth. This law is transforming the way counties think about tourism infrastructure. (Naco.org)
Key Takeaways: How U.S. Counties Are Driving Tourism Growth Through Bold Infrastructure Investments
The U.S. is on the brink of a tourism transformation, and counties are at the forefront of this change. Federal grants, lodging taxes, and transportation improvements are all playing a critical role in creating a tourism-friendly America. Some key takeaways include:
- Coastal counties like Harrison and Gulfport are focusing on beach restoration, pedestrian access, and rail service improvements to draw in more tourists.
- Michigan counties like Benzie are investing in outdoor infrastructure, such as trails and parks, to attract eco-tourists.
- Florida counties are using lodging taxes to fund massive infrastructure upgrades, ensuring a steady flow of tourism dollars.
- The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is providing billions to improve transportation infrastructure, making it easier than ever for tourists to visit key destinations.
Counties are rethinking what it means to invest in tourism, and the results are transforming the landscape. More tourists mean more revenue, and more revenue means more jobs, better amenities, and stronger local economies. These investments are not just short-term solutions — they are long-term strategies that will redefine the U.S. tourism experience for generations to come.
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