The Missouri Department of Economic Development needs your help in how it should dole out a $30 million grant. KRPS’s Fred Fletcher-Fierro has more.

Public feedback is now open on the Local Tourism Asset Development Grant program. The policy supports a public/private partnership intended to assist Missouri’s recovery of the tourism, travel, and hospitality industries from the downturn of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It’s a part of the American Rescue Plan Act, and the Missouri General Assembly appropriated the bill during this year’s legislative session. There are four levels of funding available, broken down by county, depending on how much tourism takes place there. Between 4 and 12 million dollars are available.

If approved, businesses and communities will be able to pay for improvements such as upgraded facilities and renovations.

Applications open on September 15, and awards are announced and will be announced by the end of the year. You can find out more by visiting the link at krpsnews.com.