Assemblymember Didi Barrett (D-Columbia, Dutchess) announced a $60,000 economic development grant has been awarded to Hudson Opera House to help promote tourism in the region. The grant is part of Governor Cuomo’s $16.7 million in funding for projects that spur growth and opportunity statewide.

“The Hudson Opera House has been a leader in the revitalization of historic downtown Hudson, which has rippled across the region,” Assemblymember Didi Barrett said. “This funding will play a crucial role in drawing visitors to enjoy our historic treasures and cultural assets—one of the economic drivers in our community.”

The grant will be used to commission a Visitor Demand Study based on primary market research to assess the needs of the growing tourism in the Upper Hudson Valley. The study will be conducted by George Wachtel of Audience Research & Analysts, who specializes in working with arts, cultural tourism, not-for-profit organizations and retailers.

“We’re thrilled to receive this grant from Market NY and work together with Assemblymember Didi Barrett, the various attractions, businesses and cultural organizations in the area to assess the needs of our growing tourism market,” said Tambra Dillon, Co-Director of the Hudson Opera House. “As the City of Hudson and the Hudson Valley continue to attract new generations of artists and audiences, the creative economy spurring the region’s renaissance is emerging as not only the core driver, but also a highly transformative one with the ability to attract new businesses and visitors to the area.”