Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1.5 Million in American Rescue Plan Funds to Create Historical Museum in South Padre Island, Texas

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.5 million grant to the city of South Padre Island, Texas, for construction of the Historical Museum of South Padre Island. This grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan.

This project will support the local tourism industry by attracting new visitors to the city and its businesses through this new local attraction on South Padre Island. This EDA grant will be matched with $375,000 in local funds and is expected to generate $1.2 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

“President Biden recognizes travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation are key sectors in helping build a better America,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “This project will boost tourism and attract new visitors to South Padre Island while providing economic stability for the region.”

“The Economic Development Administration works closely with communities to develop projects to boost the local economy,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This EDA investment will support the development of a cultural, heritage and maritime museum that will draw tourists to the region while creating new jobs and economic opportunities.”

“The Economic Development Administration’s investment will help create new jobs and economic opportunities for the South Padre Island community, all while honoring the city’s rich history,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “The Historical Museum of South Padre Island will serve generations of Texans to come as both a cultural and historical symbol and help educate new visitors about the region's heritage as we continue to boost our tourism and regional economies in the Lone Star State.”

This project is funded under EDA’s $240 million competitive American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation program. EDA awarded $510 million in grants to all 50 states and territories in 2021. The two programs are designed to accelerate the recovery of communities that rely on the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.