The Knox County Visitors Committee has announced the award of $85,000 in Improvement Grants to communities and tourism partners across Knox County.

These investments are designed to enhance visitor experiences, strengthen community amenities, and increase overnight stays throughout the county.

The following projects were approved:

Village of Niobrara – $10,000 for a Feasibility Study

Village of Verdigre – $10,000 for Chalupnik Park Improvements

Village of Wausa – $10,000 for Horse Arena Rebuild & Gladstone Park Improvements

City of Bloomfield – $10,000 for Bloomfield Splash Pad Project

City of Crofton – $10,000 for Directional Signage Promoting Downtown Amenities

City of Creighton – $5,000 for Creighton City Park / Sports Court & Recreational Project

Creighton Public Library – $5,000 for a Story Walk in Creighton City Park

Lewis & Clark State Recreation

Area – $10,000 for Wiegand Campground Full Hook-Up Expansion

Niobrara State Park – $10,000 for Lighting Improvements Supporting Dark Sky Certification

Village of Winnetoon – $5,000 for Park and Playground Improvements

These projects reflect a countywide commitment to enhancing outdoor recreation, community gathering spaces, camping amenities, and family-friendly attractions.

“These investments support our local communities while strengthening Knox County’s position as a destination for outdoor recreation, history, culture, family travel, and extended stays,” said Stacy Miller, Director of Knox County Economic Development and Visit Knox County.

Grant funding is made possible through local lodging tax dollars, which are reinvested back into tourism-related improvements that benefit residents and visitors alike.

Project updates and completion announcements will be shared throughout the year.