15.271 Statement of purpose — intent.

1. The general assembly finds that:

a. Highway travelers have special needs for information and travel services.

b. Highway travelers have a significant positive influence on the state’s economy.

c. A principal goal of economic development in this state is to increase the influence which travel and hospitality services, tourism, and recreation opportunities have on the state’s economic expansion.

d. Facilities and programs are needed where travelers can obtain information about travel and hospitality services, tourism attractions, parks and recreation opportunities, cultural and natural resources, and the state in general.

e. A program shall be established to plan, acquire, develop, promote, operate, and maintain a variety of welcome centers at strategic locations to meet the needs of travelers in the state. The program is intended to be accomplished by 1992.

2. The primary goals of a statewide program for welcome centers are to provide to travelers the following:

a. High quality, accurate, and interesting information about travel in the state; national, statewide, and local attractions of all types; lodging, medical service, food service, vehicle service, and other kinds of necessities; and general information about the state.

b. Needed and convenient services, including but not limited to, restrooms; lodging information and event reservation services; vehicle services; and others. Services shall also include the distribution and sale of souvenirs, crafts, arts, and food products originating in the state; food and beverages; fishing, hunting, and other permits and licenses needed for recreation activities; and other products normally desired by travelers.

c. Settings that will convey a sense of being welcomed to the state through hospitable attitudes of personnel; high quality of site landscape architecture, architectural theme, and interior design of the buildings; special events that occur at the centers; and high levels of maintenance.

87 Acts, ch 178, §1