Kentucky Leaders Weigh in on FY 2026 Federal Funding Secured by Senator McConnell

KENTUCKY LEADERS WEIGH IN

"I have the deepest respect for Senator Mitch McConnell's leadership and his unmatched service to Kentucky and our nation over the past four decades," said Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester. "He was the catalyst who brought Democrats and Republicans together to secure funding for the Brent Spence Bridge. Leader McConnell was also instrumental in Kentucky recently receiving $1.7 billion for critical defense assets and is sure to be one of his most significant and lasting achievements. Because of his tireless work, Kentucky will continue to play a vital role in our nation's defense. I know of no one who has been more influential for Kentucky or for our country in this century or the last."

COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ACROSS KENTUCKY

"Senator McConnell has long been a trusted friend and ally to the City of Owensboro, Kentucky, and we are deeply grateful for his continued support over the years," said Tom Watson, Mayor of Owensboro. "Thanks to Senator McConnell's efforts in securing federal funding, Owensboro can expand its high-quality childcare center through our local YMCA to support our city's growing workforce and economy. Having access to childcare is a significant challenge facing working families and impacting business across the nation. And while Owensboro is no exception to this issue - we are exceptional. We have a community that has come together to find solutions and make a real impact; and we have a Senator who understands the importance of supporting communities in addressing issues on a local level. This funding will directly change lives and support business, all at the same time. A homerun for everyone with our Senator going to bat for us."

"On behalf of Barren County, I want to sincerely thank Senator McConnell for his support in securing federal funding for this agricultural expo center," said Jamie Bewley Byrd, Barren County Judge-Executive. "This project will provide a much needed location for farmers to come together for trade shows and events, and will bring in millions of dollars in economic impact and development. Being ranked among the top counties in the Commonwealth for total number of farms, Barren County is a proud, resilient agriculture community and we're thrilled to be the site of this new development."

"I am very grateful for Senator McConnell's work in helping us receive new federal funding for the water treatment plant in Edmonson County," said State Representative Michael Meredith. "After years of much needed maintenance and several changes to our system, this funding for modernization efforts will enhance our capacity and capability in providing clean drinking water throughout the county."

"We appreciate Senator McConnell's support in securing the funding for the new building at the Paducah DOE site. This facility represents the future for the site, which will remain an important part of our community for decades to come. The Paducah Chamber's reindustrialization study of the site, through a grant from the Department of Energy, has highlighted what's ahead. Our Federal Priorities identified this as our top project. As cleanup efforts continue, this new building will significantly reduce the annual maintenance costs associated with aging structures originally constructed in the 1950s. The projected return on investment demonstrates that this is a wise and responsible use of public funds," said Sandra Wilson, Paducah Chamber President/CEO. "Senator McConnell has been a strong and tireless advocate for our DOE site and its workers and this is another way he has shown that. We are very grateful for this continued investment."

"This funding represents a significant investment in the individuals, families and community we serve," said Alicia Webb-Edgington, President of Life Learning Center. "We are deeply grateful to Senator Mitch McConnell for his leadership and support in this endeavor. This will have a meaningful impact on underserved and unrepresented populations of people as they get back on their feet and into the workforce.

"Our rural Rough River Lake community is grateful for the attention and total commitment of Senator McConnell and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for this vital remediation project. This additional $21 million funding will ensure ancillary work necessary for this complex project can be performed as needed. This dam remediation project will ensure the long-term viability of flood control downstream and protect the economic viability of our local recreational businesses," said Charlie Corbett, founding member and longtime president of the Friends of Rough River.

"We are thankful for the additional funding Senator McConnell has secured for the erosion study the Corp. of Engineers is doing on the bluffs at picturesque Columbus Belmont State Park. Senator McConnell and his staff's steadfast work is much appreciated by residents of western Kentucky who enjoy Columbus Belmont so much," said Kenny Wilson, Hickman County Judge Executive.

"Deep concerns about our aging water system and increased demands from residents and industry in Albany pointed toward the need for a new water treatment plant," said Albany Mayor James Bray. "Thanks to Senator McConnell's unwavering support in securing federal funding, the city can now take a significant step forward in addressing this need to ensure a clean, safe, and reliable water supply for Clinton County and neighboring communities."

"On behalf of Martin County, we are so thankful for Senator McConnell's work and all the help he has provided in federal funding for the Inez sewage treatment plant," said Dr. Lon Lafferty, Martin County Judge-Executive. "The decades old plant is in desperate need of maintenance, and thanks to this funding we can now work toward providing wastewater treatment services to residents throughout the county."

"This investment in the Woodlands Nature Station honors the original public commitment made when Land Between the Lakes was established and Senator McConnell's support at the federal level is appreciated. The federal funding will help drive measurable economic development by increasing visitation, generating tourism spending, and supporting local businesses and rural workforce opportunities across the region. Land Between the Lakes belongs to the public, and this investment reinforces our responsibility to manage it in a way that is relevant, and forward-looking," said Elaine Jackson, Friends of Land Between the Lakes Executive Director.

"The Friends of Green River National Wildlife Refuge would like to thank Senator McConnell for his continued support in securing federal funding," said Chase Fulcher, President, Friends of Green River National Wildlife Refuge. "This funding is vital to moving the priorities of this long-term Natural Resource Conservation and Public Recreation Project forward, and we appreciate the Senator's work over the course of his Senate tenure on behalf of the Henderson community."

"On behalf of the team members and children and families served by Home of the Innocents, we thank Senator McConnell for his efforts to secure funding for this important expansion," said Paul Robinson, President and CEO, Home of the Innocents. "We are grateful for Congress' acknowledgement of the need to care for these most vulnerable of patients, and look forward to meeting that challenge."

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank Senator McConnell on the behalf of the Mountain Comprehensive Health Corporation for helping us secure this federal funding," said L. M. (Mike) Caudill, JD, CEO of the Mountain Comprehensive Health Corporation. "This support will allow MCHC to construct and equip one of the only autism centers in the region for children and create 40 new jobs for the Letcher County community. After much work and external support toward this final product, we believe this funding, thanks to Senator McConnell, will put us over the top and help make this dream become reality."

"I would like to express my deepest appreciation to Senator McConnell for believing in the potential to revitalize the historic mining community of Stearns, McCreary County Kentucky," said J.C. Egnew, Founder of the McCreary County Heritage Foundation, and Chief Executive Officer of Outdoor Venture Corporation. "This revitalization project will make Stearns a world class tourism destination. Through the Senator's efforts, and belief that tourism is bona fide economic development and his ability to appropriate funds, will make this vision become reality. This project is an integral part of the goal to enhance the development of the Southern entrance to the Kentucky Wildlands and the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area."

Thank you, Senator McConnell, for your support of the redevelopment of the Belvedere," said Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg. "This investment will help with the massive repairs needed for this important infrastructure in Downtown Louisville. This project will fix Downtown's largest garage and ensure the safety of the thousands of motorists who drive underneath it every day. The reimagined Belvedere will also be a catalyst for other Downtown redevelopment projects, which is why this support is so important."

"The support of Senator McConnell and our other congressional leaders for the Covington Central Riverfront development represents a major investment in public infrastructure for Covington and all of Northern Kentucky," said Covington Mayor Ron Washington. "By strengthening our riverfront's infrastructure and laying the foundation for future development, this project will create jobs, attract private investment, and support long-term regional growth. Beyond the economic impact, this investment improves quality of life by creating spaces and infrastructure designed for residents, families, and visitors alike."

"This is a significant win for The Capital of Lake Cumberland and a major step forward for economic development in our region. We sincerely thank Senator McConnell for his leadership and continued support of Somerset-Pulaski County," said Chris Girdler, President & Chief Executive Officer of the Somerset-Pulaski Economic Development Authority. "For several years, we have actively pursued federal funding to construct a new bridge crossing Barnesburg Road. This bridge will ensure safe, efficient access throughout SPEDA Commerce Park, allowing employees, customers, and commercial traffic to travel directly from Highway 80 without disrupting traffic flow."

EDUCATION & HEALTH CARE

"This investment in the Healthy Kentucky Research Building No. 2 helps build our capacity to answer the hard questions that matter to Kentucky communities and the families that call them home," said University of Kentucky President Eli Capilouto. "This funding accelerates work already underway and expands the space where researchers, clinicians and students can collaborate to turn discovery into real-world solutions. We remain appreciative of Senator Mitch McConnell's continued leadership in guaranteeing Kentucky has the research infrastructure needed to ensure a Commonwealth tomorrow that is healthier, wealthier and wiser than it is today."

"We sincerely appreciate Senator McConnell's support for the UofL Center for Precision Medicine. This center will unite new scientific strengths to help develop personalized treatments for some of our nation's and Kentucky's most serious and costly diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and diabetes," said University of Louisville President Gerry Bradley.

"We are so grateful to Senator McConnell for his support," said Dr. Cynthia S. Kelley, President/CEO of Madisonville Community College. "This funding reflects the strong partnership between our college and Senator McConnell in advancing workforce education. By strengthening our aviation program and helping keep training affordable, this investment ensures more students can access in-demand aviation careers."

STRENGTHENING THE DEFENSE INDUSTRIAL BASE

"Throughout his career, Senator McConnell has recognized the profound economic impact that Blue Grass Army Depot has in Madison County and its important contribution to our national defense," said Madison County Judge/Executive Reagan Taylor. "The nearly $1 billion in investment that this legislation sets aside for Blue Grass Army Depot not only represents a powerful endorsement of its potential as a cornerstone of America's energetics manufacturing base, but also in the talent and value of the Depot's workforce. I appreciate Senator McConnell's sustained focus and working alongside us on job replacement at Blue Grass Army Depot and am grateful for this investment in the Depot and Madison County's shared future."

"Senator McConnell's unwavering support for Fort Knox cannot be overstated. From these critical infrastructure investments that elevate the installation's military readiness and strategic importance to the protection of one of our most treasured and visited tourist attractions, we cannot say enough about his commitment to our installation, our national defense and to our regional economy," said President and CEO of the Knox Regional Development Alliance Lance O'Bryan.

"The Military Affairs Committee is proud to stand beside the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting our freedoms. Our mission has always been to ensure they are supported, equipped, and prepared for success-both in service and at home. We are deeply grateful for Senator McConnell's enduring leadership and his tireless advocacy for Fort Campbell. His commitment continues to strengthen not only the installation but the entire community that supports it," said Shannon Lane, Director, Military Affairs Committee, Christian County Chamber of Commerce; Member, Citizens for Fort Campbell.

"The University of Louisville is extremely appreciative of Senator McConnell's efforts to secure this historic funding," said UofL President Gerry Bradley. "Military health is one of the fastest-growing areas of our research portfolio, and we believe that the coming Center for Bioscience will dramatically strengthen UofL's ability to advance science that improves the condition and well-being of our servicemen and women."

KEEPING COMMUNITIES SAFE

"We are grateful for this $2.5 million dollar investment made possible through Senator Mitch McConnell's office. This represents a major step forward for public safety in Madisonville and across the region. A state-of-the-art regional cyber-crime lab will equip our law enforcement partners with the tools, technology, and training needed to combat increasingly sophisticated cyber threats and protect our citizens in the digital age, while also strengthening collaboration across jurisdictions and position our city as a regional leader in cyber-crime prevention and investigation," said Madisonville Mayor Kevin Cotton.

"Cyber-crime is one of the fastest-growing threats facing communities today, and this $2.5 million investment allows Madisonville to stay ahead of the curve. With support from Senator Mitch McConnell's office, this regional cyber-crime lab will deliver cutting-edge capabilities that enhance safety for residents, businesses, and local governments throughout the region," said Madisonville Police Chief Steve Bryan.

"On behalf of the Warren County Drug Task Force and our local, state, and federal partners, I would like to thank Senator McConnell for his leadership and support in helping us secure this funding for new drug enforcement offices," said Tommy Loving, Executive Director of the Bowling Green-Warren County Drug Task Force. "This investment is great news, as we have outgrown our current facility, and it will significantly enhance our ability to combat crime and address drug issues throughout our region. We have always been able to count on Senator McConnell as a strong supporter of law enforcement."

IMPROVING TRANSPORTION INFRASTRUCTURE

"The Elizabethtown Airport Board is grateful for Senator McConnell's leadership and foresight to increase the capabilities of the Elizabethtown Regional Airport at Addington Field," said Carl Swope, Chair of the Elizabethtown Airport Board. "We are in a time of unprecedented growth in central Kentucky, and this investment will assure our ideally located airport remains a valuable regional asset for the next 50 years."

"We are grateful to Senator McConnell for his support to ensure that critical airfield infrastructure projects at CVG are funded and can move forward to provide important safety and capacity benefits for CVG passenger and cargo airlines as well as to create construction jobs and related spending that supports the regional economy," said Larry Krauter, CEO of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.

"We would like to acknowledge and thank Senator McConnell for championing the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF)," said Dan Mann, Executive Director of the Louisville Regional Airport Authority, which owns and operates Louisville's airport. "As SDF experienced record-setting growth each of the previous three years, this funding supports the addition of a Federal Inspection Services facility, or FIS, that will allow international passenger flights at our airport. We appreciate the Senator's on-going support as SDF continues not only its positive momentum, but its transformation into providing a best-in-class experience for the region's travelers."

"We cannot express how grateful we are for Senator McConnell's support and persistence in securing a federal grant to advance the next phase of relocating the FAA's air traffic control tower," said Eric Frankl, Executive Director of Blue Grass Airport. "Built in 1970, the existing tower does not meet current design standards and will ultimately limit our ability to expand the passenger terminal to meet the growing travel demands of the central and southeastern Kentucky region we serve. We are hopeful this grant will expedite the construction of a new tower at Blue Grass Airport."

"We are extremely thankful to Senator McConnell for his leadership and support in supporting the funding of the Airfield Lighting Project," said Dennis Rouleau, Executive Director of the Barkley Regional Airport Authority. "This improvement will replace all of the remaining old and out of date airfield lighting equipment and cabling to enhance airfield worker safety, strengthen operational reliability, and help ensure Barkley Regional Airport remains a strong transportation asset for our region. Upgrading this critical infrastructure allows Barkley to continue serving as the Front Porch of the Purchase Region, a key gateway for business, tourism, and economic development across the Purchase Area. We are grateful for Senator McConnell's commitment to Western Kentucky and to keeping our communities connected to the world."

"Henderson County is deeply grateful for Senator McConnell's work in securing this funding to help complete the I-69 Ohio River Crossing between Henderson, Kentucky and Evansville, Indiana," said Brad Schneider, Henderson County Judge-Executive. "This major transportation infrastructure project will provide significant opportunities for economic development in the entire region for generations to come, and also ease commutes, reduce traffic and delays, and improve safety for our drivers."

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