Local tourism commissions get state funding

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet and members of the General Assembly announced recently that 103 tourism and destination marketing organizations in 88 Kentucky counties will receive a total of $5.3 million in funding, including two organizations in Whitley County.

“We are celebrating another investment into the future of Kentucky,” Beshear said. “Tourism brings more than 67 million people to our state each year, and that number is set to grow even more. Whether it’s spending the afternoon fishing on a Western Kentucky lake, taking in the scenic views of Natural Bridge and the amazing moonbow at Cumberland Falls, or getting a taste of our world-famous bourbon and the fastest two minutes in sports, you’re going to find special things to see and do here in the commonwealth.”

The Corbin Tourist and Convention Commission Inc. will receive $35,063 and Whitley County Tourism will receive $8,239.

Other area agencies also receiving funding, including:

• London/Laurel County Tourist and Convention Commission – $48,426

• Barbourville Recreation and Tourist Commission – $7,015

• McCreary County Tourist Commission – $5,745

• Middlesboro/Pineville/Bell County Tourism – $16,933

In December, Beshear dedicated more than $5.3 million in federal funding to promote travel, tourism and outdoor recreation in the commonwealth, according to a release by the governor’s office.