Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $618,400 grant to the city of Cheyenne, Wyoming, to relocate and renovate three historic railroad cars to support the local tourism economy. This grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan.
This grant supports the Cheyenne Railcar Renovation Project, which aims to catalyze revitalization efforts in the city’s downtown district and boost tourism to the region. The EDA investment will be matched with $154,600 in local funds and is expected to create 9 jobs and generate $500,000 in private investment, according to grantee estimates.
“The travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sector is a critical economic driver for many communities and the Economic Development Administration is pleased to support community-led development strategies designed to boost tourism and build a better America,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This EDA investment in the Cheyenne Railcar Renovation Project leverages the region’s railroad heritage to diversify its local economy and spur economic development.”
This project is funded under EDA’s $240 million competitive American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation program. EDA awarded $510 million in grants to all 50 states and territories in 2021. The two programs are designed to accelerate the recovery of communities that rely on the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors.
Original source can be found here.
