FRANKFORT, KY - On Oct. 10, 2024, Gov. Andy Beshear provided an update on economic development, funding for transportation, grants to support veterans and aid for farmers following drought conditions. The Governor named Kentucky State Parks rangers as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.

The Governor expressed his condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the three crew members from Air Evac Lifeteam killed in a helicopter crash on Monday in Owen County. He also thanked the first responders who have aided in Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton and asked Kentuckians to keep Americans affected by these storms in their thoughts.

Economic Development
Last week, Gov. Beshear joined local leaders and executives from Henderson Distilling Co. to break ground on its more-than-$5 million project to establish Rhythm River Distillery in downtown Henderson, which will create at least 12 full-time jobs for Kentucky residents.

The Governor highlighted continued growth of Kentucky’s manufacturing sector as Piramal Pharma Solutions announced plans to expand its current Lexington operations, a nearly $80 million investment creating 45 new full-time jobs in the area.

The Governor announced continued momentum of the state’s distribution and logistics sector as Verst Group Logistics, an industry-leading, full-scale logistics provider in warehousing, fulfillment, packaging and transportation, announced plans to expand its Boone County operation with a $6.6 million investment, creating 17 new full-time, Kentucky jobs.

Gov. Beshear highlighted exciting momentum within the state’s food and beverage industry as Clark Beverage Group and Clark Distributing Co., an industry-leader in the distribution of both non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, will invest nearly $130 million to expand and establish a new corporate headquarters and distribution facility in Bowling Green, creating 20 new well-paying, Kentucky jobs.

The Governor announced that Infinity Design & Construction, a provider of 3D scanning, 3D design and construction services, will expand its presence in Kentucky with the addition of a second facility in Floyd County, creating 36 high-wage jobs with a $1.75 million investment.

On Tuesday, Gov. Beshear joined local and state officials alongside Grissan Renewable Energy leaders for the groundbreaking of the company’s first U.S. operation, a clean energy manufacturing facility in Marion County that will convert spent mash from distilleries into sustainable, renewable natural gas and fertilizer. The $62.7 million investment will create 20 new, full-time Kentucky jobs.

Transportation Alternatives Program Awards
Gov. Beshear awarded approximately $18.6 million to improve non-motorized transportation for pedestrians and riders. More than 80% of the funding went toward 12 new projects to improve or install sidewalks, two shared-use paths and one trail. Approximately $3 million was allocated for funding increases for 10 city projects.

Johnson County was awarded over $4.7 million for the for the KY 321 Shared Use Path. Johnson County Judge/Executive Mark McKenzie joined the Team Kentucky update to express his excitement for the project.

“Thank you, Gov. Beshear, for supporting us and showing what can happen in our communities,” said Judge McKenzie. “Our goal every day is to strive to improve the quality of life for our residents. And this project represents a tremendous step forward in our community’s infrastructure, connectivity and safety.”

A full list of the projects is available here. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet administers the federally funded Transportation Alternatives Program. The program supports non-motorized forms of transportation to improve connectivity, accessibility, safety and equity in communities.

Veterans Program Trust Fund Grants
The Governor announced $145,000 in funding from the Veterans Program Trust Fund will go to four organizations supporting Kentucky veterans:

- $10,000 to Paws-Ability to cover the expenses of training and the placement of two service dogs with local veterans or first responders struggling with PTSD;

- $25,000 to the Kentucky Aviation Historical Society to assist in hosting a two-day festival highlighting the history of aviation and providing a venue for service members to enjoy;

- $20,000 to HorseSensing to provide nine months of support for veterans in their residential therapeutic job training and placement program; and

- $90,000 to Kentucky Habitat for Humanity to provide critical home repairs for low-income Kentucky veterans.

Aid For Farmers Affected by Drought
Last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture designated 10 counties in Kentucky as primary natural disaster areas, as well as 19 contiguous counties, due to recent drought conditions. Click here for a full list of counties.

Farm operators in these counties are eligible to be considered for Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loan assistance, provided eligibility requirements are met. Farmers in eligible counties have until June 1, 2025, to apply for emergency loans. Eligible farmers should contact their local FSA offices for assistance. Click here to find your local FSA office.

In addition, 14 Kentucky counties are eligible to apply for 2024 Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) benefits. Producers in the following counties are eligible: Anderson, Boyd, Boyle, Carter, Franklin, Greenup, Henry, Lawrence, Martin, Mercer, Owen, Shelby, Washington and Woodford.

LFP provides compensation to eligible livestock producers who suffered grazing losses for covered livestock due to drought on privately owned or cash leased land or fire on federally managed land. Farmers in eligible counties should contact their local FSA office for more information.

Team Kentucky All-Stars
Gov. Beshear recognized Kentucky State Parks rangers as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars. Rangers help the commonwealth maintain a safe and secure environment at Kentucky State Parks.

The Governor highlighted heroic actions by Kentucky State Parks Ranger Rickey Baker. Last month, after finishing his shift at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Ranger Baker found a vehicle on fire with the driver trapped inside. Thanks to the swift and selfless actions of Ranger Baker and Darrin Burton, who was also passing by, the driver was rescued from the burning vehicle.

“The heroic efforts of Ranger Baker and Mr. Burton saved this woman’s life,” said Gov. Beshear. “Their actions exemplify the true spirit of Team Kentucky, where we help each other in times of need. That’s why today’s Team Kentucky All-Stars are our State Parks rangers, who always answer the call to action.”