Rockwall pursues Tourism Friendly Community Designation

Rockwall pursues Tourism Friendly Community Designation

Rockwall, TX (June 26, 2024) – The Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to serve as the DMO (Destination Marketing Organization) for the City of Rockwall. It is operated as Visit Rockwall and we are excited to announce our pursuit of the Tourism Friendly Community designation, a new initiative designed to foster tourism as a vital economic development strategy across Texas. The Rockwall City Council formally announced this commitment on June 17 with a proclamation.

The Tourism Friendly Certified Community Program, established by the State Tourism Office, aims to support and encourage communities to leverage tourism for economic growth. This program provides valuable resources and guidance throughout a yearlong certification process. Rockwall is currently at the City Proclamation Stage, with the goal of completing this step by July.

Visit Rockwall Director, Jodi Willard, expressed optimism about the designation, stating, “This initiative represents a fantastic opportunity to showcase Rockwall as a premier tourism destination. The resources and support from the State Tourism Office will be instrumental in highlighting the unique attractions and charm of our community.”

The Office of the Governor will begin designating cities that complete the certification process starting January 2025. Rockwall is proud to be among the select cities working towards this prestigious recognition.

We have the honor of welcoming new residents and visitors to our community daily.  Our team recruits and supports groups focused on business, sports and social events. This helps stimulate and drive the local economy. In 2023 alone, tourism spending reached $130 Million in Rockwall and supported over 900 residents in tourism related employment.

For more information about the Tourism Friendly Certified Community Program and its goals, visit https://gov.texas.gov/travel-texas/tourism-friendly-texas.

By Darby Nielsen, Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce. Blue Ribbon News is excited to share this exclusive Chamber Connection guest column in each print edition and online at BlueRibbonNews.com.