GRANTS, N.M. – The City of Grants and Grants MainStreet Project Inc. hosted a tourism and economic development brunch at the Double Six Art Gallery, bringing together local business owners, community leaders, and state officials to discuss the future of tourism and business opportunities in the region.
The event, organized by City of Grants Marketing Director Denise Hanson, provided a platform for discussion on various initiatives aimed at strengthening the local economy and attracting visitors.
Main Street Projects and Enhancing Walkability
A key focus of the discussion was the Great Blocks Project, which aims to revitalize the Grants MainStreet corridor, improve walkability, and enhance the overall streetscape.
Grants MainStreet Project Inc. President Patrick Clingman shared that Grants MainStreet held a community that gathered 106 responses. He said that this is helping to tailor the work of the district, which has been focused on beautification with its mural painting and recent tree survey which is helping to identify problem and unhealthy trees for replanting, relocating, and rehabilitation.
The project will undergo an April 15 walkthrough to discuss survey findings and develop a vision that reflects the desires of business owners, lawmakers, and residents. Additionally, a $40,000 grant has been secured to assess and manage trees within the district to improve safety and aesthetics.
A new wayfinding project from Grants MainStreet and the City of Grants will introduce consistent signage throughout Grants, guiding visitors to attractions such as Main-Street, Mount Taylor, City Hall, and New Mexico State University. The goal is to create a unified marketing message and streamline navigation for tourists.
In addition, a gateway and aesthetics project is in progress to enhance the entrances and exits along I-40, ensuring the city’s front door leaves a lasting positive impression on visitors.
Centennial of Route 66 and Upcoming Events
With the 100th anniversary of Route 66 approaching next summer, officials emphasized the need to prepare for an influx of visitors.
Grants is preparing to host its second annual “Spokes on 66” Car Show, set to take place in Riverwalk Park, City Hall Park, and other key locations. The event, now just 95 days away, is expected to attract over 100 registered cars, live music, and family-friendly activities. The event, happening in June, will bring fun, influencers, delicious food, and the Cibola community together.
MainStreet and the Grants Cibola County Chamber of Commerce stressed the importance of local businesses preparing to capitalize on the increased tourism. “This is an opportunity to get new money into Grants,” Clingman noted. “Be creative in how you market your business and think proactively about how to attract visitors.”
Outdoor Recreation and Economic Opportunities
The meeting also highlighted the potential of outdoor recreation to boost the local economy.
Recent data revealed that 84 percent of New Mexicans participate in outdoor activities, with 76 percent identifying as outdoor enthusiasts. Grants is aiming to expand its outdoor recreation economy by improving trails, developing new attractions, and increasing overnight stays in the area.
Projects are ongoing to check the number of visitors to each of Cibola’s trails, the Cibola Trail Alliance recorded over 6,000 users last year to Quartz Hill alone – and that is a closed trail! Les Gaines, a volunteer with CTA, said that the number of visitors, despite being closed, demonstrate the growing interest in local outdoor activities. Gaines also announced that Zuni Canyon Road is slated for chip sealing, a major improvement that will enhance access to outdoor sites.
Tourism Exchange USA and Digital Marketing Strategies
Representatives from Tourism Exchange USA presented a new digital marketplace designed to connect local businesses with international travelers. The platform allows businesses to showcase their services on major travel websites like Expedia, Booking.com, and Google Things to Do, driving visibility and increasing visitor spending.
The initiative is backed by the U.S. Travel Association and is designed to attract high-value tourists who stay longer and spend more. Grants officials encouraged businesses to join the platform, noting that it offers free registration and a streamlined booking system to maximize local exposure.
Expanding the Creative Economy in Grants State officials from the New Mexico Creative Industries Division outlined efforts to support entrepreneurs, small businesses, and arts organizations.
The creative sector contributes $6 billion annually to the state economy, and officials emphasized the need for Grants to leverage its cultural assets, museums, and artistic community to further economic growth.
One initiative under discussion is the development of a cultural and arts center, including a sculpture garden, performance space, and educational workshops. Plans are also underway to enhance local museums and create interactive experiences that appeal to younger generations and cultural tourists.
The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration and proactive planning. Speakers encouraged business owners to engage with MainStreet, economic development agencies, and the Arts Council to ensure that the City of Grants is fully prepared to take advantage of upcoming opportunities.
With a surge of visitors expected for the Route 66 Centennial, expanded outdoor recreation, and digital marketing initiatives in place, Grants is positioning itself as a premier destination for tourism and economic growth.
For more information on how to get involved with these initiatives, contact the City of Grants, Grants Main Street Project, or the Grants Chamber of Commerce.