Governor Announces Plan for Historic $250 Million Investment to Modernize State Parks and Trails to Enhance Tourism, Boost Local Economies

Press Release

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer today, in the shadow of the Mackinac Bridge from Straits State Park in St. Ignace, announced her plan for critical investments in state parks and trails so that public spaces across Michigan become a more attractive destination for tourism and position the state as a recreation leader. The plan calls for a historic investment of $250 million in federal relief dollars from President Biden's American Rescue Plan to be used for new investments in parks and trails and to address the backlog of park infrastructure projects, which will help support Michigan businesses and local economies.

"Tourism is vital to Michigan's economy and to our overall economic health, and COVID disproportionately harmed our tourism and hospitality sectors," said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. "Investments in our public spaces make Michigan a more competitive and attractive destination for tourism, position us as a recreation leader, and are critical components of our seasonal and rural economies. This is a valuable use of our federal funds to help the communities who rely on tourism rebound from the public health crisis. Parks bring us together. They are equally beloved by all Michiganders, regardless of geography or income, race or class or politics."

Source