16 public and private organizations will receive grants totaling $ 93,300, the Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency said on Friday.

The agency’s funds will flow into capital and marketing projects for the 2021 tourism season to drive economic development.

Diana Irey Vaughan, Chair of the County Commissioners, said in a press release, “Washington County’s economy is not only driven by energy, education and advanced manufacturing, but also by a strong tourism industry. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development, tourism remains one of the largest industries in the county, with direct visitor spending well over $ 700 million and supporting nearly 6,000 jobs. “

Jeff Kotula, president of the tourism agency, said in the press release, “The nearly $ 100,000 in new investment … will prepare and position Washington County to take full advantage of the new opportunities that the pandemic will bring.”

The organizations are divided into two categories: five capital projects will receive $ 27,800 and eleven marketing programs will receive $ 65,500. A list of recipients and the amounts they have received are:

Capital Projects: The Crafty Alpaca, $ 2,800; Mingo Creek Craft Distillers, $ 10,000; Mon Valley Alliance, $ 10,000; National Pike Trail Council, $ 2,000; and West Alexander Agricultural Association, $ 3,000.

Marketing Programs: Aquatorium Innovations, $ 5,000; Family Festivals Association Inc., $ 7,500; Little Lake Theater, $ 9,000; McDonald Volunteer Fire Department, $ 3,500; Meadowcroft Rockshelter & Historic Village, $ 4,000; Monongahela Area Historical Society, $ 1,500; National Duncan Glass Society, $ 4,500; Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, $ 7,500; Washington Wild Things, $ 13,000; Washington Symphonic Orchestra, $ 5,000; and Whiskey Rebellion Festival, $ 5,000.

The tourism agency works with the Washington County Chamber of Commerce.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR