The Economic Development Administration awarded a $2 million Project Grant to the Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau on July 19, 2022 under the Economic Adjustment Assistance program (CFDA 11.307). The funding will support construction of the new Imperial Calcasieu Mardi Gras Museum and associated parking lot in Lake Charles, Louisiana. The 6,000 square foot, one-story museum building and outdoor courtyard will be built on approximately 0.6 acres and further enhance the region's tourism industry, which is dependent on travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation. The new museum facility will aid the region's economic recovery from fluctuations in tourism by promoting employment opportunities and private investment.