WASHINGTON, D.C.- Boosting economic opportunities in Appalachia through tourism and culture is the goal, officials say, of a new multistate grant. The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) will announce $250,000 in funding that will help grow the outdoor tourism industry and fuel economic development across Central Appalachia. Travel in Appalachia is a nearly $60 billion per year industry, directly employing over 577,000 workers across the region while generating over $4.5 billion dollars in tax revenue. It ranks among one of the region’s fastest growing employment sectors. Last year ARC invested $12.3 million in 23 tourism and culture projects, resulting in 450 jobs created or retained and 267 businesses created or enhanced.
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