U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1 Million in American Rescue Plan Funds Boost Tourism and Outdoor Recreation in Swift County, Minnesota

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1 million grant to Swift County, Minnesota, to support the recovery of the local tourism and outdoor recreation sector by making improvements at the Appleton Area Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Park. This grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan.

This grant will construct new park facilities and renovate existing areas to includes new restrooms, vehicle wash stations, a beach recreation area, walking trails and signage. The EDA investment will be matched with $443,227 in local funds and is expected to create or retain 50 jobs and generate $500,000 in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

“President Biden recognizes the vital contribution the travel and tourism industry makes to the American economy,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “This EDA investment in Swift County will help the region’s critical tourism and outdoor recreation sector not only recover from the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic but build back stronger for the future.”

“The Economic Development Administration plays an important role in supporting community-led economic development strategies designed to boost coronavirus recovery and response efforts,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This EDA investment will ensure the long-term viability of a critical source of tourism-based economic development for Swift County.”

“With over 20 miles of riding trails, the Appleton Area Off-Highway Vehicle Park attracts motor enthusiasts from all over the state,” said Senator Amy Klobuchar. “This funding will create good-paying jobs and help locals and tourists alike enjoy the outdoor recreation that Appleton has to offer.”

“Minnesota is blessed with pristine natural landscapes and unique attractions. I’m always thrilled when we’re able to make them more accessible and inviting,” said Senator Tina Smith. “The tourism industry in Minnesota – and across the country – was hit hard over the past several years. This investment, made possible by the American Rescue Plan, will make improvements to the Appleton Area Off-Highway Vehicle Park while supporting 50 jobs. This is great news for Swift County and the surrounding communities.”

This project is funded under EDA’s $240 million competitive American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation program. EDA awarded $510 million in grants to all 50 states and territories in 2021. The two programs are designed to accelerate the recovery of communities that rely on the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors. Effective May 26, 2022, EDA has officially closed all of its American Rescue Plan programs for applications. The $3 billion program funding will be awarded on a rolling basis through September 30, 2022.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation’s regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.