Governor Greg Abbott has congratulated the City of Sugar Land for achieving the designation of Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community by Travel Texas. This recognition follows Sugar Land’s completion of a multi-step certification process and highlights efforts to use tourism as an economic growth strategy.
Governor Abbott stated, “Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies. 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 also holds the Music Friendly Texas certification.
Senator Joan Huffman said, “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 commented on 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 said, “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 noted: “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 community features: “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 emphasized economic development: “Tourism is an increasingly important part of Sugar Land’s total picture of economic development and growth. 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 Visit Sugar Land said: “Sugar Land is proud to join our peers around the state as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified destination.” She explained that participation in this program strengthens their commitment toward attracting visitors.
Alyssa Abdulla from Visit Sugar Land added: “As we present Sugar Land as a destination… being designated as a Tourism Friendly Texas city demonstrates that our team… are more than ready…” She expressed excitement about leveraging resources provided by this program.
The certification program accepts applications from local governments or non-profit organizations responsible for tourism promotion efforts within their communities; benefits include strengthening partnerships for tourism development strategies at both local levels while providing access through TravelTexas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas.
Travel Texas operates within Governor Abbott’s Economic Development & Tourism Office with goals including marketing Texas nationally/internationally—generating travel revenue/jobs statewide.
