Dunleavy is proposing a $5M grant for Alaska tourism efforts

Governor Mike Dunleavy said Monday that he plans to propose a $5 million grant to support tourism marketing efforts amid the ongoing pandemic and funds to prepare state parks for visitors, according to APM.

He said the hope is for a return to “robust” tourism activity after a difficult two years.

Dunleavy’s office credited a prior marketing effort with helping draw tourists to Alaska this year, including independent travelers. Large cruise ships returned this year after being sidelined amid COVID-19 concerns last year.

Dunleavy’s office said he has proposed a $5 million grant in federal funds for the Alaska Travel Industry Association. The money comes from the American Rescue Plan, a $1.9 trillion COVID relief bill Congress passed in March with no Republican votes. The grant is subject to approval by the Alaska Legislature.

The Alaska Tourism Industry Association also got a $10.5 million federal grant in November and a $5 million grant in January.