U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $2.4 Million in American Rescue Plan Funds to Support Tourism in Southeast Ohio

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2.4 million grant to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Columbus, Ohio, to boost tourism in southeast Ohio by making upgrades to Burr Oak State Park. This grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan.

This project will include new campsite amenities, trail segments, and docks at the marina to enhance the visitor experience at the park. The EDA investment will be matched with $604,625 in local funds and is expected to create or retain 125 jobs, according to grantee estimates.

“President Biden recognizes the vital contribution the travel and tourism industry makes to the American economy,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “This EDA investment underscores the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to helping this critical sector not only recover from the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic but build back stronger and more equitably for the future.”

“The Economic Development Administration plays an important role in supporting community-led economic development strategies,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This EDA investment in the Burr Oak State Park will ensure that it continues to be a critical driver of tourism-based economic development and job creation in the Appalachian region of Ohio.”

“Ohioans depend on access to parks for outdoor recreation, community events, and local jobs,” said Senator Sherrod Brown. “This funding from the American Rescue Plan will support the local economy, create jobs, and promote local tourism at Burr Oak State Park.”

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. 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.