The City of Burleson has been recognized as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community by Travel Texas, following the completion of a certification process. This designation highlights Burleson’s efforts to use tourism as a strategy for economic growth, job creation, and attracting more visitors both from within Texas and internationally.
Governor Greg Abbott commented on the importance of tourism to the state’s economy: “Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies,” said Governor Abbott. “Travelers to and within Texas generate almost $200 billion in annual economic impact and support 1.3 million jobs across the state. I congratulate the City of Burleson on earning this designation. All Texas communities are encouraged to apply to become a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community to further grow local tourism and jobs across our great state.”
Senator Phil King also acknowledged Burleson’s achievement: “I am proud to join Governor Abbott in recognizing Burleson as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community,” said Senator Phil King. “Not only is Burleson a great place to live and work, but it’s a destination that welcomes visitors with genuine Texas hospitality. From the charm and history of Old Town to the city’s exciting new developments, Burleson seamlessly blends small-town warmth with big opportunities. Congratulations to the City of Burleson on this outstanding achievement.”
Representative Helen Kerwin highlighted several attractions in Burleson: “Congratulations to our great City of Burleson,” said Representative Helen Kerwin. “Burleson is full of life, and I am thrilled to see the rest of Texas taking notice. Whether you’re strolling through Downtown Old Town (our beloved old soul), enjoying the arts at Russell Farm, relaxing at Lost Oak Winery, having a blast at Alley Cats, making memories at Jellystone Water Park, cooling off at the Brick Splashpad, or cheering on teams at Chisenhall Fields — Burleson has something special for every visitor. This Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation celebrates our community’s heart, creativity, and hospitality — and I can’t wait to welcome even more people to experience it. Thank you Governor Abbott and Travel Texas for this amazing opportunity.”
Representative David Cook emphasized leadership in achieving this recognition: “The City of Burleson’s recognition as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community is a testament to its strong leadership and shared vision for growth,” said Representative David Cook. “Located on the southern edge of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Burleson offers a family-oriented environment, great schools, and a thriving economy that makes it an incredible place to live, work, and play. This achievement reflects the hard work of our local leaders, businesses, and families who make Burleson a great place to call home, and I’m proud to represent a city that continues to lead the way in Texas. I want to thank Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office, the City of Burleson, and everyone who helped make this historic achievement possible.”
Burleson Mayor Chris Fletcher expressed pride in receiving statewide attention: “Being named a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community is a big win for Burleson,” said Mayor Chris Fletcher. “Folks already know this is a great place to visit, and now the whole state does too.”
City Manager Tommy Ludwig spoke about long-term goals: “Earning the Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designation reflects our city’s commitment to strategic growth and long-term economic vitality,” said Ludwig. “Tourism is an important driver of investment, supporting our local businesses and enhancing Burleson’s reputation as both a destination and a community of choice.”
The Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community program allows local governments or non-profit organizations leading tourism promotion efforts an opportunity for relationship building important for tourism development; education for local leaders about tourism’s significance; identification of locally driven strategies; as well as access to resources from Travel Texas and other state programs that support communities along with travel industry stakeholders.
More information about this program can be found at gov.texas.gov/tourism-friendly-texas.
Travel Texas operates within the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office with an aim to boost local economies by marketing Texas as an attractive travel destination outside state borders—including international markets—bringing revenue into communities throughout Texas.
