Texas Governor Greg Abbott has recently announced the City of Buda's new status as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community. This designation comes after Buda completed a rigorous multi-step certification process and marks the city's commitment to fostering music-related economic development and job creation, as noted in a report by Office of the Texas Governor.
During the announcement, Governor Abbott highlighted that the Texas Music Office's Music Friendly Texas program enables communities to work proactively towards boosting local job creation and economic growth, a sentiment Senator Judith Zaffirini echoed, commending Buda for its vibrant music culture which has been instrumental not only in enhancing the local community, but in also promoting the broader creative spirit that makes Texas stand out. According to the Office of the Texas Governor, the Texas music industry is a significant economic powerhouse, responsible for 196,000 direct and indirect jobs and over $31 billion in annual economic activity within the state.
Buda's Mayor, Lee Urbanovsky, told Office of the Texas Governor, "Becoming a Music Friendly Texas Community is a game-changer for Buda," and expressed his enthusiasm for the ways in which the music sector contributes to both the community's economy and cultural identity, as stated by the Office of the Texas Governor. Christie Newberry from City of Buda and Discover Buda TX mentioned to the same source their pride in receiving the designation, noting the city's dedication to supporting its local artists and its vibrant music scene.
The Music Friendly Texas Community Certification Ceremony will take place on April 5 during Buda's 144th Birthday Celebration at the Buda Amphitheater and City Park. The event, cohosted by TMO and the City of Buda, will feature a presentation by Gini Mascorro, TMO Community Relations and Outreach Specialist. It aims to celebrate Buda's musical heritage and promote the city as a top destination for music fans and professionals. For more details, contact Michelle Henley, Public Information Officer for the City of Buda, as per the Office of the Texas Governor.
With Buda’s addition, the Music Friendly Texas program now comprises 78 certified communities, a testament to the initiative’s growth and the state's investment in music as a means of economic and cultural development. The Office of the Texas Governor, part of Governor's Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office, has played a pioneer role in supporting the Texas music industry, acting as a liaison between music businesses and government offices since 1990 and continuously drawing attention to Texas as a hub for significant music industry activity.
