Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1.4 Million in American Rescue Plan Funds for Infrastructure to Support Tourism in Fredericksburg, Texas

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.4 million grant to the city of Fredericksburg, Texas, for construction of a parking facility needed to support local tourism. This grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan.

This project will accommodate additional visitors to Fredericksburg’s businesses and local attractions, supporting unprecedented growth in the city’s tourism industry. This EDA grant will be matched with $5.3 million in local funds and is expected to create 526 jobs and retain 33 jobs, according to grantee estimates.

“President Biden recognizes the vital contribution the tourism industry makes to the American economy,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “This project will support one of the top tourism destinations in Texas, by providing additional infrastructure to accommodate tourists to Fredericksburg.”

“The travel and tourism industry is an important part of many local economies across the country,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This EDA investment will provide greater access to Fredericksburg restaurants and local attractions in support of the local tourism economy.”

“The Economic Administration’s investment in Fredericksburg will help boost local tourism and bring economic opportunities to the community,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “Fredericksburg is a Texas treasure and national tourist attraction, bringing in people from across the nation to the beautiful Hill Country region. This grant will bring critical infrastructure improvements to the city, ensuring Fredericksburg continues to grow and thrive.”

This project is funded under EDA’s $240 million competitive American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation program. EDA awarded $510 million in 2021 to all 50 states and territories. The two programs are designed to accelerate the recovery of communities that rely on the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors. Effective May 26, 2022, EDA has officially closed all of its American Rescue Plan programs for applications. The $3 billion program funding will be awarded on a rolling basis through September 30, 2022.

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.