JACKSON COUNTY – The Jackson County Tourism Development Authority will reopen its cycle for tourism capital projects January 1, 2023. $750,000 is available for projects that benefit visitors and residents alike. Applications for this cycle are due June 1, 2023.

Under state legislation, the JCTDA may expend one-third of its annual budget on brick-and-mortar capital projects to include convention and conference centers, arenas and stadiums, sports facilities, performing arts venues, museums and other attractions, parks, greenways, trails, other placemaking initiatives like streetscapes and public art, wayfinding and more.

“Although no public tax dollars are used in these projects,” says JCTDA Director Nick Breedlove, “the public will still benefit significantly through these efforts that will strengthen the vibrancy of the community, generate additional room nights, and enhance both the resident and visitor experience.”

With the new TCPF, funds are available for projects that are owned and operated publicly or by nonprofits. A one-to-one match is required. Eligible projects include:

• New construction, expansion, renovation, or a replacement project for an existing facility or facilities. The project must have a total cost of at least $25,000 over the life of the project and a useful life of at least 10 years.
• A purchase of major equipment (assets) costing $25,000 or more with a useful life of at least 10 years.
• A major maintenance or rehabilitation project for existing facilities with a cost of $25,000 or more and a useful life of at least 10 years.

Full details of the TCPF program and an application is available on JacksonCountyTDA.com under the ‘TCPF’ tab.

Projects recommended by the TCPF Selection Committee and the JCTDA Full Board will have to be approved by Jackson County Commissioners.

For more information on the TCPF, contact JCTDA Executive Director Nick Breedlove by email at [email protected] or by telephone at 828-339-1160.

Source: Jackson County Tourism Development Authority