CALUMET, Mich. (WZMQ) – Visit Keweenaw has awarded $100,000 to area businesses.
Seven projects are receiving thousands of dollars through Visit Keweenaw’s Destination Development Fund. The money is partially generated by tourism and fully designated for local improvements.
“We dedicate about 10% of our annual budget to fund these awards that are made to support visitor experiences but also the quality of life here in the Keweenaw,” said Visit Keweenaw Executive Director Brad Barnett. “When someone comes to the Keweenaw and stays with one of our lodging partners, a portion of that stay is contributed to the Destination Development Fund.”
Recipients include several trails groups, like the Hancock Trails Club, the Keweenaw Snowmobile & ATV Club, the Swedetown Trails Club, and the Finlandia Foundation National’s Finnish American Heritage Trail Project. Barnett says the money will be used to enhance outdoor recreation for both locals and tourists.
“Establishing accessible trails is something we were able to fund this year at Swedetown,” he said. “It’s going to be the first accessible trail in the Western U.P. that’s suitable for wheelchair use, strollers, walkers. It’s also great for those of us who are living in the Keweenaw as we continue to age in place. It allows us to get out there and continue to enjoy what makes the Keweenaw a really special place to live.”
Additionally, the Keweenaw Land Trust received funding to improve signage at Jacob’s Falls and Boston Creek, and the Keweenaw County Road Commission will be able to install tables at roadside parks. The City of Hancock received $15,300 for the annual Christmas light display at Hancock Campground.
Barnett says the variety of recipients this year demonstrates how much the Keweenaw has to offer.
“After the COVID pandemic, we’ve seen a new generation of entrepreneurs and volunteers who are just excited about finding a way to really make this a place where they can live, work, and play,” he said. “What I love is the energy in which our volunteer groups and new business owners are coming with fresh, new ideas. It really makes this a vibrant place to visit and live.”
For more information on the Destination Development Fund and how to apply for future awards, click here.
