Governor Greg Abbott has extended his congratulations to the City of Corsicana for being recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community. This designation was awarded by Travel Texas in the first year of the program, following Corsicana's successful completion of the certification process. The recognition highlights the efforts of the Corsicana Visitors Bureau in promoting tourism as a means of economic growth, job creation, and attracting visitors from across the nation and globally.
"Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies, supporting one in 11 jobs across Texas," stated Governor Abbott. "Travelers to and within Texas generate more than $193.8 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 City of Corsicana and the Corsicana Visitors Bureau 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."
Travel Texas Director Tim Fennell praised Corsicana's cultural contributions: "Home to a world-renowned artist residency program, notable galleries, and dynamic performance art, alongside beautifully preserved historic landmarks, Corsicana offers travelers an experience that is both enriching and memorable. We’re honored to recognize Corsicana as a Tourism Friendly Texas Community and celebrate its exceptional contributions to arts, culture, and tourism."
Senator Bob Hall also commended Corsicana: "Big congratulations to Corsicana for being named a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community. This honor reflects the city’s true Texas spirit, from its rich history to its warm hospitality and thriving attractions. Corsicana is a shining star in the Lone Star State, inviting folks far and wide to experience the best of Texas charm and culture."
Representative Cody Harris acknowledged Corsicana's achievements: "Corsicana has earned this well-deserved recognition for its outstanding commitment to growth and development through the tourism industry. Having this designation is one more reminder of what we can be proud of in East Texas—inviting, entertaining, culturally rich environments. It is another opportunity to lead by example and make Texas proud."
Mayor Mike Fletcher expressed his excitement about this new accolade: "I am so excited to hear about Corsicana becoming a Tourism Friendly Texas destination. What a great addition to our Music Friendly Texas and Film Friendly Texas designations that we have recently been recognized with. There are so many great things for visitors to do here, and this is a real honor to be identified for all that Corsicana has to offer."
Amy Tidwell, Director of Tourism for Corsicana shared her pride: "I could not be more proud to see Corsicana recognized on this level as a Tourism Friendly Texas destination. Corsicana is a special city to visit and perfectly placed between Dallas and Houston on Interstate 45. We welcome any visitors to come explore our great city."
The Tourism Friendly Texas Community program invites local governments or non-profit organizations leading tourism promotion efforts within their community. Certification benefits include fostering relationships crucial for tourism development, educating leaders on tourism's importance statewide, prioritizing local strategies, and accessing resources from Travel Texas.
For further details on becoming certified under this program, interested parties can visit gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas.
Travel Texas operates under the Governor's Economic Development & Tourism Office with aims at enhancing local economic initiatives by marketing Texas as an attractive travel destination internationally while boosting revenue generation along with job creation throughout various Texan locales.
