The Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency (WCTPA) has announced a third round of tourism grant investments for 2026 totaling $110,300. These projects will support tourism and marketing initiatives throughout Washington County as well as assist local organizations, municipalities, and businesses in enhancing visitor experiences, promoting attractions and events, and investing in tourism infrastructure. To date, the WCTPA has awarded $504,850 in tourism program grants in 2026. This latest funding round includes eight projects representing a diverse range of tourism initiatives, including the rehabilitation of a historic covered bridge, improvements to an accessible walking trail, and marketing campaigns designed to attract visitors to Washington County events, attractions, and facilities. According to Jeff Kotula, President of the WCTPA, these strategic investments in local tourism assets and attractions are essential in strengthening the county’s economy and quality of life. The summary below includes all grants approved by the WCTPA Board of Directors:
Capital Grants
- Amwell Township: $35,000 for rehabilitation of the Hughes Covered Bridge
- Donegal Township: $30,000 for paving and accessibility improvements to the walking trail at historical park
- Pennsylvania Trolley Museum: $4,300 for hardware and software upgrades to Trolley Simulator Exhibit
Marketing Projects
- County Home Shows: $14,000 to promote the 2027 Washington County Home Show through television and radio advertising
- Donora Borough: $10,000 to promote the inaugural Mon Valley Fall Festival & Carnival at Palmer Park through multimedia advertising
- DoubleTree by Hilton: $4,000 to promote the American Contract Bridge League Regional Championship through multimedia advertising
- Meadowcroft Rockshelter & Historic Village: $8,000 to promote 2027 visitation via print and digital advertising
- Sarris Candies: $5,000 to promote factory tours during special events held at the Sarris Candies Production Facility