The City of Mexia has received the designation of Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community, Governor Greg Abbott announced. The recognition comes from Travel Texas after Mexia completed a certification process aimed at promoting tourism as a strategy for economic growth.
Governor Abbott highlighted the significance of tourism to both local communities and the state 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 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.”
State Senator Charles Schwertner commented on the value of the new designation for Mexia, stating, “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 also praised the community’s achievement: “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 expressed his appreciation for the recognition: “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 Mexia Economic Development Corporation, emphasized tourism’s role in economic development: “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 Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community program allows local governments or nonprofit organizations responsible for promoting tourism development efforts to seek certification. Benefits include strengthening relationships important for developing tourism strategies, educating leaders about its importance statewide, prioritizing locally driven initiatives, and learning about resources offered by Travel Texas and other government programs that support communities as well as travel industry stakeholders.
Travel Texas operates under the Governor’s Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office, focusing on marketing Texas as a travel destination outside state borders with goals including generating out-of-state visitation and supporting job creation through increased travel-related revenue.
