Belmont Joins Chaffee, Clear Creek, Rio Grande, Allegheny and Other Counties in US States Like Ohio, Colorado, Pennsylvania in Receiving Tourism Grants, Turbocharging Economy, Now America First is Really Working

Published on December 5, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Belmont County joins Chaffee, Clear Creek, Rio Grande, Allegheny, and other counties across US states like Ohio, Colorado, and Pennsylvania in receiving major tourism grants. These grants are not just a boost for local economies — they are turbocharging the future of tourism in these regions. With the America First approach in full swing, this initiative is driving job creation, infrastructure upgrades, and sustainable tourism projects.

By securing these grants, Belmont County, along with other US counties in Ohio, Colorado, and Pennsylvania, is positioning itself as a key player in the national tourism landscape. These counties are already seeing the positive effects of this financial injection, with improvements in local attractions, upgraded facilities, and enhanced tourism services. With Belmont, Chaffee, Clear Creek, Rio Grande, and Allegheny leading the charge, it’s clear that this initiative is revitalising economies from coast to coast.

Thanks to the America First focus on local growth, these counties are benefitting from tourism grants that prioritise sustainable development, job creation, and long-term prosperity. As this momentum builds, expect to see even more regions embrace the transformative power of these tourism grants. Ohio, Colorado, Pennsylvania, Belmont, and more are stepping into a new era, proving that America First really works for local economies. Stay tuned for how this revolution is reshaping the future of tourism in these thriving counties.

In 2025, U.S. counties are in for a tourism transformation that will redefine their economies, landscapes, and local cultures. With millions of dollars in tourism grants being awarded to counties nationwide, these grants are a catalyst for growth, boosting everything from infrastructure to marketing. In this article, we dive into how these grants will positively impact US counties, revolutionising the tourism industry, creating jobs, and injecting new life into local economies.

Whether you are in the sun-drenched landscapes of California or exploring the cultural richness of Pennsylvania, U.S. counties are seizing the opportunity to invest in tourism like never before. This wave of grants is not just about rebuilding from past setbacks; it’s about laying the foundation for long-term growth and a sustainable tourism model that benefits both locals and visitors. Here’s what the 2025 tourism grants mean for counties across the United States.

How US Counties Are Using 2025 Tourism Grants to Boost Local Economies

In 2025, counties across the U.S. are receiving tourism grants aimed at reinvigorating local economies. These grants are sourced from federal, state, and local tourism programmes that focus on enhancing infrastructure, creating tourism attractions, and supporting the overall tourism ecosystem.

Colorado leads the pack with a series of tourism grants from the Colorado Tourism Office (CTO). These grants are aimed at supporting local marketing efforts, as well as developing infrastructure to better handle the increasing number of tourists coming to the state. Counties like Chaffee, Clear Creek, and Grand have already seen a boost in funding, allowing them to enhance their tourism offerings.

In Pennsylvania, counties like Allegheny and Washington are also benefiting from grants. Allegheny County received over US$11 million to support tourism and infrastructure projects, including upgrading visitor centres, festivals, and local attractions. This kind of funding gives counties the financial resources needed to market their destination, improve visitor amenities, and create new tourism experiences.

Belmont County Secures $100,000 Grant to Boost Tourism

Belmont County, along with over 30 other counties in Ohio, has been awarded a $100,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission to support tourism development efforts in the region. This funding aims to provide a significant boost to Appalachian Ohio, positioning it as a growing hub for tourism and economic activity.

Strengthening Appalachian Ohio’s Tourism Sector

The grant, provided by the Appalachian Regional Commission, is intended to benefit the organization Appalachian Ohio. With this funding, the region aims to enhance its tourism infrastructure, attract more visitors, and promote local attractions, thereby increasing economic activity across the counties involved.

Chandler Grooms, the treasurer of Appalachian Ohio, emphasized the importance of tourism as an economic driver for the region. “We view tourism as an economic driver for Appalachian Ohio, from attractions to Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVBs),” Grooms stated. “We are in the best spot to help make an impact through tourism and economic development.” This statement reflects the vision of using tourism not only as a leisure activity but as a catalyst for growth and sustainable development in Appalachian Ohio.

Local Efforts to Secure Additional Funding

Belmont County Tourism is also focused on securing additional funding for future local projects. Jackee Pugh, the executive director of Belmont County Tourism, spoke about the ongoing efforts to ensure the county’s projects for 2026 receive the necessary financial support. These projects are expected to expand upon the initiatives supported by the current grant and continue building momentum for the area’s tourism development.

The combined efforts of both the Appalachian Ohio organization and Belmont County Tourism aim to turn the region into a thriving tourist destination, driving local economic benefits and creating jobs. With the support of this grant, the region’s tourism landscape is set to evolve and offer new experiences for travelers, while benefiting local communities and businesses.

A Bright Future for Tourism in Belmont County

The $100,000 grant marks the beginning of what officials hope will be a long-term transformation for Belmont County and the broader Appalachian Ohio area. As tourism continues to grow, the region looks forward to reaping the rewards of increased visitation, higher spending, and strengthened economic prospects.

Colorado Counties Leading the Charge with Tourism Grants

In Colorado, several counties are benefitting from the state’s generous tourism grants. The state has made significant investments in enhancing its tourism infrastructure to ensure a seamless experience for visitors. Counties like Chaffee, Clear Creek, and Grand are receiving much-needed financial assistance to boost their tourism appeal and promote their natural beauty.

Chaffee County, for example, is using its grant to develop new hiking trails and enhance its existing outdoor recreation infrastructure. With Colorado’s stunning natural landscape as a backdrop, these initiatives will attract tourists looking to experience the state’s mountains, rivers, and national parks.

Clear Creek County, a popular destination for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, is using the funds to improve its visitor centre and build more sustainable tourism infrastructure. The money is also being used to create marketing campaigns that will promote the area as a year-round destination for both outdoor activities and cultural events.

Pennsylvania Counties Also Making Strides with Tourism Grants

Across Pennsylvania, counties are seeing a dramatic shift in their tourism industries, thanks to the influx of 2025 tourism grants. In Allegheny County, which encompasses Pittsburgh, the local government has been awarded over US$11 million in tourism funding. This money is being used to support local events, build new tourism attractions, and improve the county’s infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of visitors.

Washington County, another key region in Pennsylvania, is receiving tourism grants that will go towards preserving historical sites, developing cultural tourism, and expanding visitor services. These initiatives not only attract more tourists but also preserve the county’s heritage for future generations.

Westmoreland County, located just outside of Pittsburgh, is another county that has seen the benefits of tourism funding. The local government has allocated the grants to support tourism events and enhance the experience of visitors who come to the area for its natural beauty and historic landmarks.

The Economic Impact of Tourism Grants: Creating Jobs and Stimulating Growth

The economic impact of these tourism grants is significant. By enhancing infrastructure, creating new attractions, and supporting local businesses, these grants are acting as a driving force behind job creation and economic growth in U.S. counties.

Take, for example, Allegheny County. The US$11 million in funding will help create thousands of new jobs in the tourism and hospitality sectors. From tour guides to hotel staff, restaurant workers to transportation personnel, the ripple effect of these grants will be felt across the local economy.

Similarly, in Colorado, counties receiving tourism grants are seeing job creation in sectors such as hospitality, retail, and outdoor recreation. The grants are being used to fund projects that increase the capacity of local businesses to serve tourists, ensuring that more people can enjoy the region’s attractions without overwhelming local infrastructure.

Moreover, the grants are helping counties attract large-scale events, which not only boost tourism but also generate significant economic activity in the local area. Whether it’s a cultural festival, outdoor sporting event, or food and drink gathering, these events draw visitors and create an influx of spending that benefits local businesses.

Sustainable Tourism Development: A Long-Term Vision for US Counties

As part of the 2025 tourism grants, many counties are focused on developing sustainable tourism practices that will preserve their natural beauty and cultural heritage. These efforts ensure that tourism growth doesn’t come at the expense of the environment or local communities.

For example, in Washington County, Pennsylvania, a portion of the grants is being used for sustainable tourism initiatives. This includes creating eco-friendly visitor centres, enhancing local transportation systems, and developing trails that promote outdoor activities while minimizing environmental impact.

Similarly, counties in Colorado are prioritising sustainable practices in outdoor tourism. By focusing on green initiatives, these counties are ensuring that they can continue to attract visitors for years to come while preserving the landscapes that make them so desirable.

Sustainability is becoming a key selling point for US counties as they look to capitalise on the growing demand for eco-friendly and responsible travel experiences.

Future Outlook: What’s Next for US Counties and Tourism Grants?

Looking ahead, 2025 marks just the beginning of a new era for US counties that are receiving tourism grants. These investments are expected to continue in the coming years, with more counties applying for funding to support their tourism infrastructure and promotional efforts.

The tourism landscape in the United States is shifting, and counties that leverage these grants wisely will see long-term benefits. By focusing on developing sustainable, inclusive, and diverse tourism experiences, these counties will attract visitors from around the world.

The future of tourism in US counties is bright. With ongoing funding and strategic planning, these regions will continue to thrive, creating jobs, enhancing the visitor experience, and boosting local economies for generations to come.

The Power of Tourism Grants for US Counties in 2025

2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for US counties as they receive substantial tourism grants to enhance their infrastructure, promote local attractions, and create new opportunities for growth. From Colorado’s stunning mountain trails to Pennsylvania’s rich cultural history, these counties are transforming into tourism powerhouses.

With the support of tourism grants, these counties are poised for a future of economic prosperity, job creation, and sustainable growth. Whether through enhanced marketing campaigns, improved visitor centres, or new outdoor attractions, US counties are using these grants to create lasting change in their local economies.

As we move forward, expect to see even more counties applying for these transformative grants and contributing to the continued success of the US tourism industry.