The goal of the Gateway to Austin committee is to increase tourism in Austin. Our community already has tourism assets that other communities envy: I-90 traffic, the Spam Museum and The Hormel Institute.

The Gateway to Austin committee itself is focused on three goal areas: improving the visuals of the I-90 corridor such as landscaping, each of the six overpass bridges and signage; improving signage for visitors navigating the community after exiting I-90 and building a visitors center to attract and educate visitors on all that Austin/Mower County offer to see and do.

Keep your eye out for signs to be installed in 2015 to help visitors find local attractions. The committee has selected 19 sites to place signs that will help drivers make decisions at key intersections to find the Mower County Fairgrounds or the Hormel Historic Home.

In addition to those goal areas, other Vision 2020 work will support tourism.

By improving our waterways and encouraging water recreation, the Waterways committee will draw tourists to fish, swim, canoe and kayak Austin waters.

By strengthening our economy and encouraging business development along 18th Ave NW, as well as other retail areas, the Business Friendly Environment committee will draw tourists to shop Austin retailers.

By adding features and amenities to our trail system and seeking the National League of Bicyclists’ Bike Friendly status, the Bike Walk committee will attract tourists to use Austin as a hub for bike travel around southeast Minnesota.

By developing a stronger arts and retail center in downtown Austin, the Destination Downtown committee will attract tourists to attend events, concerts and exhibits. The new SPAM® Museum, opening in 2016, will add to that vibrance.

By creating a winter sports dome and flexible Community Recreation Center, the Community Recreation Center committee will attract tourists to play in and spectate at sporting events.

Tourism is already generating $51 million in gross sales and supporting over 1,200 jobs in Mower County (2013 MN Dept of Revenue and DEED). As the community grows and becomes a better place to live, work, play and visit, that will grow and further strengthen our community.

Thank you to all the Vision 2020 committee volunteers, as well as our many community partners. Your work today to improve Austin is moving the needle and will generate positive outcomes for future generations.