Governor Greg Abbott has congratulated the City of Mexia for earning the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation from Travel Texas. This recognition follows Mexia’s completion of a certification process aimed at promoting tourism as a strategy for economic growth, increasing local job opportunities, and attracting more visitors to both Mexia and the state.
“Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies,” said Governor Abbott. “Travelers to and within Texas generate almost $200 billion in annual economic impact and support 1.3 million jobs across the state. I congratulate the City of Mexia 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.”
Senator Charles Schwertner commented, “At the heart of Mexia is warm hospitality and authentic Texas heritage. This designation will attract new visitors, support our small businesses, and strengthen Mexia’s place as a valued destination in our region.”
Representative Angelia Orr added, “As the State Representative for the City of Mexia, I could not be more proud of the city’s designation as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community. This achievement is the result of the hard work and dedication of the families, local officials, and small business owners who take pride in their community. Thank you to Governor Abbott for recognizing how special this town is, and I encourage everyone to come experience what Mexia has to offer.”
Mayor Geary Smith stated, “Mexia is honored to be recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community. We’re excited to welcome more visitors to experience our rich heritage, vibrant music culture, and small-town charm with big-hearted people.”
Stacey Bush, Executive Director of the Mexia Economic Development Corporation, said: “Earning the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation is a key step in Mexia’s ongoing efforts to drive economic growth through tourism. As an economic development organization, we recognize that attracting visitors not only supports local businesses but also creates opportunities for long-term investment in our community.”
The program allows local governments or non-profit organizations leading tourism promotion efforts to apply for certification. Communities that receive this designation gain access to resources that help build partnerships important for tourism development, educate leaders about tourism’s role in economic health, identify strategies tailored locally, and learn about support offered by Travel Texas along with other state programs.
Travel Texas operates within the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office with a mission focused on supporting local economies by marketing Texas as a travel destination nationally and internationally. The office works to bring non-Texan travelers into the state while generating revenue and employment for communities.
For more information on the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community program: gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas.
