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Published on January 17, 2025
City of Early Celebrates Achievement as Tourism Friendly Texas Certified CommunitySource: Google Street View

The City of Early has recently earned itself a spot as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community, a nod from Travel Texas that signifies the city's commitment to tapping into tourism for economic growth and job creation. Governor Greg Abbott extended his congratulations to the community for completing the multi-step certification process, aimed at drawing in visitors both from within the United States and internationally. "Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies, supporting one in 11 jobs across Texas," Abbott remarked, noting the substantial economic impact of $193.8 billion and support for 1.3 million jobs statewide, according to a statement from the Governor's office.

The designation reflects the city's efforts in providing both outdoor adventures and true Texas hospitality, and as Travel Texas Director Tim Fennell pointed out the area boasts Lake Brownwood with 100 miles of shoreline that offers great fishing and recreational activities, the Wild West vibes of Los Trece, and the Skies Over Texas Winery where visitors can experience local award-winning wines; together these factors uniquely position Early as a prime spot for tourists seeking diverse experiences. "Early’s designation as a Tourism Friendly Texas Community reflects its blend of outdoor adventure and Texas-sized hospitality," Fennell said, every corner of the state offers unique attractions that beckon travelers to explore and enjoy, as per the Office of the Texas Governor.

Local officials, including Senator Phil King and Representative David Spiller, also praised Early's achievement, claiming it highlights the community's spirit and commitment to providing extraordinary visitor experiences which they believe will boost tourism and, ultimately, the local economy. "I am honored to celebrate Early’s designation as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community," King said in a statement, anticipating further economic growth for Senate District 10, detailed by the Office of the Texas Governor.

Dr. Robert Mangrum, Early's Mayor, and Denise Hudson-Brian, the Early Tourism Director, both affirmed the city's commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for visitors and expressed their pride in being among the first to receive this certification this recognition by the state is seen not just as a nod to their efforts, but also as an affirmation of the dedication of residents, local businesses, and community leaders who've worked to make Early an appealing destination for tourists. Hudson-Brian shared that the designation "affirms the positive feedback we consistently receive from visitors and event organizers," she told news outlets about the consistent efforts of the community to stand out as a hospitality-forward destination, according to the Office of the Texas Governor's release.

The Tourism Friendly Texas Community program is accessible to local governments or non-profit organizations that promote tourism development and upon certification, these communities can benefit from strengthened relationships crucial for tourism advancement, education of local leaders about tourism's importance, locally driven strategy formation, and further opportunities offered by state government programs to support travel and tourism. To get more information about becoming a certified community, interested entities can visit the official website provided by the Governor's office.