FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

VisitMercerCountyPA Provides Funding for
Two Tourism Development Projects

MERCER COUNTY, Pa. - December 20, 2011 – VisitMercerCountyPA, the official Tourist Promotion Agency for Mercer County, recently approved funding for two capital projects through its Tourism Attraction Development Grant (TAG).  For fiscal year 2011/2012, the agency allocated $60,000 to support tourism development in Mercer County.

The first project, Waterfire Sharon, was approved to receive $30,000 toward the development of an exciting project to draw visitors to the Shenango River in downtown Sharon.  The grant will assist “Waterfire Sharon” in constructing 30 braziers, or metal baskets in which aromatic wood is burned.  The braziers will be placed in the Shenango River and when lit cast a pleasing aroma in the air while music is played and various events are conducted.  In Providence, R.I. where Waterfire originated, tens of thousands of visitors come to enjoy the display and other activities.

The second TAG project was granted $16,740 for an expansion of Hell’s Hollow Wildlife Adventure Trail.  The trail in Mercer, Pa. travels through 110 acres of forest, swamp, farmlands and waterways.  It can be hiked, biked or ridden using a cart.  The trail offers visitors an environmental and historical experience featuring landmarks, historical buildings, environmental areas, wild animals, birds, waterfalls and farmland.

“These projects will greatly enhance the tourism experience in Mercer County PA,” said Karen Anderson, President of VisitMercerCountyPA “Our organization hopes to fund more tourism development projects that will increase our ability to draw greater visitation to Mercer County.”

About VisitMercerCountyPA:
Located in Northwestern Pennsylvania, along the Ohio border, Mercer County is home to name-brand outlets, boutiques and unique specialty stores for shoppers. The area is also known for its challenging golf courses of inspired design. Golf Digest ranked Mercer County as one of its top golf destinations. Visitors can dine on mouthwatering cuisine in Mercer County's array of fine restaurants and then stay overnight in a well-appointed hotel, a luxurious bed and breakfast or a cozy country inn. Close to Pittsburgh, Erie, Cleveland and other major markets, Mercer County is easily accessible via I-80 and I-79. The County offers the perfect escape.  For more information, visit www.VisitMercerCountyPa.com