The City of Sugar Land 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 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 importance of tourism to 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 praised the achievement: “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 also noted: “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,” said Senator Borris Miles. “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: “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 added: “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,” said Representative Stan Kitzman. “Texas is a special place, and Sugar Land is especially Texan.”
Representative Suleman Lalani spoke about community qualities: “Sugar Land is a melting pot of cultures, small businesses, faith communities, and diverse neighborhoods that make our city a true destination,” said Representative Suleman Lalani, M.D. “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 commented: “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 unique experiences that make Sugar Land welcoming.”
Alyssa Abdulla from Visit Sugar Land highlighted benefits for event planners: “As we present Sugar Land as a destination…being designated as a Tourism Friendly Texas city demonstrates that our team…are more than ready…We’re excited to leverage knowledge…to benefit local tourism businesses.”
The certification program allows governments or non-profits involved in tourism promotion in their communities access resources for relationship building education strategic planning with Travel Texas programs designed for industry support (more details at gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas).
Travel Texas operates under the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office with goals including marketing out-of-state/international travel destinations increasing non-Texan visits generating revenue/jobs locally statewide.
