Press Room > 2004 :

Tourism Subfund Applications Available

RELEASE DATE: Wednesday, February 18, 2004

For More Information Contact: Mary Lehecka Nelson, 773-3301

Pierre, SD – Three South Dakota businesses were approved to receive money from the state’s newly funded $3 million Tourism Subfund.

“We’re excited to start getting these dollars out to businesses,” said Marty Davis, acting secretary, Department of Tourism and State Development. “Governor Rounds is committed to invigorating the tourism economy and this program is just one step in making that happen,” she said.

Two of the projects involve feasibility studies. A $10,000 grant was awarded to the Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce to assess the possibility of establishing an immersion theater in Hot Springs. The study, which will take four to five months, will also determine the resulting economic impact of the theater.

“Hot Springs is extremely interested in increasing its visitation numbers. This study will help city leaders determine if this type of attraction would draw people to the area,” Davis said. She added that this would be the first theater of its kind in South Dakota. “Basically it’s a total experience theater. Without leaving your chair, you experience movement, wind, moisture and temperature changes, all while watching a geological time lapse of what is now South Dakota, from the inception of time to present,” she explained.

The second Subfund application approved was from Kellar Properties of Deadwood. The company was approved for a $14,000 loan to determine if a convention center is feasible in the City of Deadwood. Currently, Deadwood’s largest meeting space only accommodates 160 people. “Convention centers can definitely have a positive impact on a community, both in terms of attracting people and in bringing in new dollars,” Davis said.

The third Subfund application approved was an $11,623 grant awarded to the Black Hills Passion Play. The money will be used to help develop a marketing plan to attract more visitors to the Play and the area. “South Dakota has been home to the Passion Play since 1938. Organizers feel strongly that the marketing efforts need to be revitalized to fit today’s market,” Davis said.

The Subfund was created by the 2003 Legislature to help promote and further develop the Tourism industry in South Dakota. Three million was earmarked from the state’s REDI (Revolving Economic Development & Initiative) Fund.

For more information or to receive an application, contact Charlie Van Gerpen at the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, 800-872-6190.