Blunt: Long live the Tour of Missouri

In one of his last columns before he leaves the governor's mansion, Matt Blunt extolls the virtues of Missouri tourism, taking time to tell readers how great the Tour of Missouri bike race is:

For centuries, Americans and people from around the world have been visiting Missouri for its history, beauty and many attractions. They come to experience the urban excitement in St. Louis and Kansas City, our rustic beauty in the Ozarks, our natural wonders in state and national parks, our vibrant lakes, and our Missouri hospitality everywhere.

And they are still coming today. Today’s visitors come to experience nature in our vast untouched spaces; to hunt, fish, to relax at one of our many rivers, lakes and parks; to be entertained; and to shop, dine, explore, and participate in cultural events in our urban centers.

In 2007 my administration announced another exciting destination for tourists. An historic partnership between my office, the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Conservation resulted in the creation of a new state park in Missouri. The Current River State Park reflects the significant natural resources in the area and a well known waterway that Missourians and visitors alike enjoy and love. The partnership also returns a state park to the Current River for the first time since 1968. This site has significant natural and historical resources together with many recreational opportunities for all to enjoy.

Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder and I have also brought a professional cycling race to our state known worldwide as the Tour of Missouri. The tour has provided an incomparable opportunity to showcase Missouri’s natural beauty and warm hospitality to a world audience. The third annual Tour of Missouri is set for September 7-13, 2009. I encourage Missouri families to continue to support this great sporting event and to enjoy the many benefits of this premier cycling event right in our own backyards.

Not surprisingly, tourism is a booming industry in our state. More than 293,000 Missourians are employed in tourism-related jobs; and in 2007, Missouri hosted 39.2 million visitors from within the United States. Direct expenditures by travelers in Missouri are estimated to have been $8.2 billion during Fiscal Year 2007.

I understand how important tourism is to our state’s economy and as a driver for job creation. In my four years as governor, funding to promote Missouri as a great destination for tourists has increased by 32.8 percent, a $5.8 million increase.

As we travel the state, Melanie and I continue to be impressed with the countless wonders right in our own backyards. Missouri’s natural beauty and hospitality, and our many opportunities for fun and recreation, make the Show-Me State one of America’s premier destinations for family travel.