27 September 2005

Governor says Kansas must utilize the Flint Hills’ job creation potential
New research shows region has excellent potential to create jobs from tourism

Kansas is home to a national treasure, one with great potential to grow the state’s economy and create jobs by bringing tourists to Kansas. Now, according to Governor Kathleen Sebelius, is the time to take advantage of the potential of the Flint Hills.

Sebelius released the results of a yearlong study, which show Kansas has an exceptional opportunity to create jobs and promote economic growth by developing a Flint Hills tourism industry.

“The Flint Hills are unique to Kansas. We must seize this opportunity to create jobs in our rural areas by drawing more tourists to what truly is a national treasure,” said Governor Sebelius.

After visiting 140 sites in the 11,734 square mile Flint Hills Region, researchers from the nationally recognized firm of Fermata, Inc. concluded, “Nowhere in the United States can one experience the nature, culture, and history of the Great Plains in such a vivid, extant, and unadulterated fashion.” The Fermata report noted, “Research indicates 81 percent of U.S. citizens that traveled last year are considered historical or cultural travelers seeking the type of experience that can be found in the Flint Hills.”

“There is a real untapped potential here, and I will work with local communities throughout the Flint Hills to realize the region’s tourism potential. New investments will help us expand and diversify our economy, and protect the Flint Hills for the future,” Sebelius said.

“We need coordinated action, and I’d like to have a plan in place later this fall that spells out how to move forward. But we’ve already made real progress in tapping into the Flint Hills’ potential for economic growth,” said Governor Sebelius.

The Governor pointed to last week’s designation of Highway 177 as the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway. And the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, located in the Heart of the Flint Hills, is already attracting visitors.

Next steps will include a review of the study’s findings and recommendations by the Governor and her Economic Development Cabinet, consisting of the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Labor, Revenue, Transportation, and Wildlife and Parks. Local leaders and legislators from the Flint Hills will also be active participants in the process.

More information, including a summary of the report, can be found at http://www.webabouteverything.com/fermata/fhexptourismstrategy092305.pdf.