Moab Museum highlights tourism impact at commission budget workshop

The Grand County Commission convened on May 22, 2025, to discuss various agenda items, with a significant focus on the county budget and the role of local attractions in tourism. The meeting featured a presentation from the communications director of the Moab Museum, who highlighted the museum's impact on the local economy and tourism sector.

The director began by addressing the current budget shortfall faced by the county and emphasized the importance of the museum in Moab's tourism landscape. Citing a report from Future Market Insights, the director noted that the global museum tourism market is projected to grow from $31.3 billion to approximately $93 billion by 2035. This growth trend has prompted local governments across the country to invest more in museums, transforming them into active tourism drivers.

The director shared that recent surveys indicated a strong interest in education and museums among visitors to the Moab area. The Moab Museum has received recognition for its contributions, including an Outstanding Achievement Award from the Utah Historical Society. The museum serves as a key indoor attraction, with 92% of its visitors being first-time guests from outside the county.

Despite a reported 15% decrease in transient room tax (TRT) spending, the museum has seen a 95% increase in admissions over the past four and a half months, attributed to the launch of a new uranium exhibition. The director urged the commission to recognize the museum as a vital facility for tourism enhancement, as outlined in House Bill 456.

Historically funded through the county's mitigation budget, the museum aims to broaden its role in promoting local history and culture. The director called for the commission to prioritize arts and culture funding, suggesting that supporting the museum could benefit the entire community without detracting from essential services.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for further public comments, indicating ongoing community engagement in discussions about the county's budget and tourism strategies. The commission's next steps will likely involve considering the museum's proposals and the broader implications for local tourism and cultural initiatives.