The City of Sugar Land has been recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community by Travel Texas, following the completion of a certification process. This designation highlights Visit Sugar Land’s efforts to use tourism as a strategy for economic growth, job creation, and attracting visitors from across the country and internationally.
Governor Greg Abbott commented on the significance of tourism for Texas: “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 Sugar Land and Visit Sugar Land 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.”
Sugar Land now holds both Music Friendly Texas and Tourism Friendly Texas certifications.
Senator Joan Huffman noted, “I congratulate the City of Sugar Land on earning Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community status. This recognition highlights Visit Sugar Land and our local partners’ efforts to showcase our community’s unique appeal, boost tourism, create jobs, support small businesses, and solidify Sugar Land’s reputation as one of Texas’ best places to live, work, and visit.”
Senator Lois W. Kolkhorst added, “Being named a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community is a significant achievement for the City of Sugar Land. This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of local leaders to create an inviting atmosphere for visitors. I’m proud to celebrate this milestone as it showcases the unique culture and vibrant experiences this community has to offer.”
Senator Borris Miles emphasized diversity: “As I have always stated, Texas’ greatest strength is its diversity, and Sugar Land is one of the most diverse and fastest-growing cities in our state. This tourism designation will not only drive economic growth, create jobs, and attract visitors, but it will also showcase Sugar Land as a shining example of how our diversity enriches and strengthens our community.”
Representative Gary Gates remarked on economic opportunity: “As a representative of Sugar Land, I’m proud to see our city earn the Tourism Friendly Texas designation. This recognition affirms our community’s strong commitment to expanding economic opportunity, supporting local businesses, and showcasing the vibrant experiences that make Sugar Land an exceptional destination.”
Representative Stan Kitzman said: “Having Sugar Land designated a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community by Travel Texas offers an additional opportunity to show the world our Texas history, Texas culture, and our incredible Texas people. Texas is a special place, and Sugar Land is especially Texan.”
Representative Suleman Lalani highlighted investment: “Sugar Land is a melting pot of cultures, small businesses, faith communities, and diverse neighborhoods that make our city a true destination. Being designated a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community not only recognizes that hard work, it also opens the door to more visitors, more jobs, and more investment, while preserving the outstanding quality of life that makes Sugar Land such a special place to live, work, and visit.”
Mayor Carol McCutcheon discussed economic development: “Tourism is an increasingly important part of Sugar Land’s total picture of economic development and growth,” said Mayor Carol McCutcheon. “Becoming a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community is a key part of our strategy to grow this sector which in turn will through tourism-related income continue to support the quality of life that makes Sugar Land such an attractive city to visit and live.”
Alison Brooks from the Office of Economic Development & Tourism stated: “Sugar Land is proud to join our peers around the state as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified destination,” said Assistant Director Alison Brooks. “This program strengthens our commitment to attract visitors support local businesses and showcase the unique experiences that make Sugar Land a welcoming and vibrant place to visit.”
Alyssa Abdulla added about meetings planning: “As we present Sugar Land as a destination to meetings and events planners being designated as a Tourism Friendly Texas city demonstrates that our team and our tourism partners are more than ready to help them achieve their goals,” said Director of Sales Alyssa Abdulla. “We’re excited to leverage the knowledge and resources this program provides to our local tourism businesses and our visitors.”
The certification program accepts applications from local governments or non-profit organizations leading tourism promotion efforts in their communities. Benefits include strengthening relationships vital for tourism development educating leaders about its importance identifying strategies tailored locally learning about opportunities from Travel Texas or other state programs supporting communities travel or tourism industry needs.
Travel Texas operates within the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office with its mission focused on marketing out-of-state or international travel destinations increasing non-Texan visits generating revenue or creating jobs statewide.
For more information about becoming certified visit gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas.
