The City of Burleson has been recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community by Travel Texas, following the completion of a multi-step certification process. This designation highlights Burleson’s commitment to developing tourism as a strategy for economic growth, supporting job creation, and attracting more visitors both from within Texas and beyond.
Governor Greg Abbott emphasized the significance of tourism to the state’s economy. “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 Burleson 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 Phil King also commented on Burleson’s achievement: “I am proud to join Governor Abbott in recognizing Burleson as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community. Not only is Burleson a great place to live and work, but it’s a destination that welcomes visitors with genuine Texas hospitality. From the charm and history of Old Town to the city’s exciting new developments, Burleson seamlessly blends small-town warmth with big opportunities. Congratulations to the City of Burleson on this outstanding achievement.”
Representative Helen Kerwin added her congratulations: “Congratulations to our great City of Burleson. Burleson is full of life, and I am thrilled to see the rest of Texas taking notice. Whether you’re strolling through Downtown Old Town (our beloved old soul), enjoying the arts at Russell Farm, relaxing at Lost Oak Winery, having a blast at Alley Cats, making memories at Jellystone Water Park, cooling off at the Brick Splashpad, or cheering on teams at Chisenhall Fields — Burleson has something special for every visitor. This Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation celebrates our community’s heart, creativity, and hospitality — and I can’t wait to welcome even more people to experience it. Thank you Governor Abbott and Travel Texas for this amazing opportunity.”
Representative David Cook noted: “The City of Burleson’s recognition as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community is a testament to its strong leadership and shared vision for growth. Located on the southern edge of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Burleson offers a family-oriented environment, great schools, and a thriving economy that makes it an incredible place to live, work, and play. This achievement reflects the hard work of our local leaders, businesses, and families who make Burleson a great place to call home, and I’m proud to represent a city that continues to lead the way in Texas. I want to thank Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office, the City of Burleson, and everyone who helped make this historic achievement possible.”
Burleson’s Mayor Chris Fletcher remarked: “Being named a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community is a big win for Burleson. Folks already know this is a great place to visit, and now the whole state does too.”
City Manager Tommy Ludwig highlighted tourism’s role in local development: “Earning the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation reflects our city’s commitment to strategic growth and long-term economic vitality,” he said. “Tourism is an important driver of investment, supporting our local businesses and enhancing Burleson’s reputation as both a destination and a community of choice.”
The certification program is available for local governments or non-profit organizations leading tourism promotion efforts in their communities. It provides benefits such as building partnerships crucial for tourism development; educating leaders about tourism’s importance; identifying strategies tailored locally; as well as access to resources from Travel Texas and other state programs designed for travel industry support.
For more information about this program visit gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas.
Travel Texas operates under the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office with its mission focused on promoting Texas as an attractive travel destination outside state borders—aiming both at increasing out-of-state visitation and boosting revenue alongside job creation throughout communities statewide.
