State and local leaders press hospitality, hotels and workforce as keys to Mission and RGV growth

Mission and regional leaders on hospitality and economic development used a Feb. luncheon in Mission to outline ongoing hotel investments, workforce training and small-business programs intended to grow tourism and related economic activity in the Rio Grande Valley.

Adrianna Cruz, executive director of the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office, told the Greater Mission Chamber audience that tourism is a major economic driver for the state. “Tourism and hospitality is such an important part of our economy,” Cruz said, adding that visitors to Texas spent nearly $95 billion in 2023, generating an economic impact of about $194 billion and supporting roughly 1.3 million jobs statewide.

The panel included private developers and local economic leaders who described several near-term projects and programs that organizers say will increase visitor stays in Mission. Nita Kassan, vice president of operations at Ocean Gate Hospitality, said Ocean Gate is investing in local hotels, naming an IHG Avid and Candlewood Suites dual-brand property and a Marriott Residence Inn as upcoming developments. “For us, hotels are more than just buildings,” Kassan said, adding the projects are intended to serve multiple customer segments and create jobs.

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