Gov. Beshear Provides Team Kentucky Update

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 26, 2026) - Today, Gov. Andy Beshear provided updates on economic development, a record-low recidivism rate, a decrease in highway fatalities, high-ground communities in Eastern Kentucky and Severe Weather Awareness Week. The Governor named Kentucky author Silas House as this week's Team Kentucky All-Star following House being awarded the Southern Book Prize.

Economic Development
Gov. Beshear highlighted that his administration has secured the first-, third-, fourth- and fifth-best years for wages on record. In 2025, Kentucky's average incentivized hourly wage was the highest on record, at nearly $30 an hour.

The Governor also announced that in the first two months of 2026 alone, his administration has announced 18 private-sector new-location and expansion projects totaling $1.4 billion in proposed investments, creating more than 1,100 jobs.

The Governor highlighted major growth in Kentucky's energy sector as Green Energy Parks announced plans to locate a new $142 million agricultural waste-to-energy facility in Arlington that will create 20 high-wage positions. The project represents the largest investment on record in Carlisle County and the first private-sector announcement in the county in more than a decade.

Gov. Beshear announced further investment toward the state's sites and building portfolio as 12 projects in 12 counties were approved for $13.5 million in state funding to improve Kentucky's available sites, positioning communities for future investment and job creation.

The Governor announced that eight innovative and high-tech Kentucky companies will receive a total of $862,479 in state matching grants to support high-paying jobs and further grow the state's technology sector.

Gov. Beshear announced that Kentucky once again set an all-time record for products shipped globally, with $50.6 billion in exports in 2025. This is the third straight year Kentucky has broken its exports record. This year's record represents a 5.65% increase over 2024.

"To ensure this success continues, we need the Trump administration to follow through with the Supreme Court ruling and roll back the tariffs," said Gov. Beshear. "These trade partnerships bring Kentucky-made products to the world, and it helps everyone involved to see that these exports continue to grow."

Record Low Recidivism Rate
The Governor announced that Kentucky's recidivism rate has declined for the second consecutive year, securing another record low for the commonwealth. Nearly 70% of people released from state custody over the past two years have not returned to prison, making communities safer for future generations.

"The work we are doing to provide second chances and real job opportunities is working," said Gov. Beshear. "It's not just the smart thing to do - my faith teaches me second chances are what we are called to do. In Kentucky, we're ending generational cycles of crime and making our communities safer for our kids and families."

Declining Highway Fatalities
Gov. Beshear announced that in the first two months of 2026, Kentucky has seen a reduction in highway fatalities. From Jan. 1 to Feb. 23, compared to that same period last year, Kentucky has seen a 27% decrease in highway fatalities and a 13% decrease in serious injuries related to highway crashes. So far, 52 Kentuckians have been lost to crashes on Kentucky highways, and 246 highway injuries have been reported in 2026.

"We've seen fewer fatal crashes in Kentucky for the third year in a row," said Gov. Beshear. "That means more Kentuckians returned home safely to their families at the end of their day. While even one death is too many, I'm encouraged by the progress we're making together. Keep staying off the roads when conditions are dangerous and practicing safe habits while driving, like wearing your seat belt. The proof is there. When we work together, we can protect Kentucky lives."

Housing in Eastern Kentucky
Gov. Beshear provided an update on progress being made on housing in Eastern Kentucky for flood survivors at the eight high-ground sites that will eventually provide over 500 homes out of the flood plain.

• At New Hope Estates in Prestonsburg, four homes are under construction, and all four have buyers ready. Eventually, this site will include 34 homes. For this project, Team Kentucky provided $10 million to purchase the land and help construct the homes.
• At Skyview in Perry County, five homes are completed and occupied. When this neighborhood is complete, nearly 100 homes will be onsite.
• At Chestnut Ridge in Knott County, roads in the western portion of the neighborhood are nearly finished, with estimated completion by fall 2026. This site will have 175 homes when completed, some of which will be rental units.
• Finally, at Olive Branch in Knott County, road construction is set to begin soon. This site is expected to have around 130 homes, with senior apartments, a park and recreation space for families.

Anyone who was impacted by the flooding of 2021, 2022 or 2025 can visit HousingCantWait.org and fill out an interest form to receive help with the housing process.

Severe Weather Awareness Week
Gov. Beshear recognized March 1-7, 2026, as Severe Weather Awareness Week in the commonwealth. During this week, Kentucky Emergency Management and the National Weather Service will be providing tips on how to prepare for severe weather. The Governor encouraged Kentuckians to participate in the state's annual tornado drill on March 4 at 10:07 a.m. EST. Kentuckians can contact their local emergency management or National Weather Service offices for more information.

"Since I became governor, we've had 15 federally declared weather disasters in the commonwealth," said Gov. Beshear. "But each time we are faced with a challenge, I am thankful to know we're the most prepared state around. We take proactive steps to help our people, and Team Kentucky works together to ensure every area of impact is addressed. I encourage you to follow along next week and make sure you and your family have a severe weather plan ready if ever needed."

Team Kentucky All-Star
The Governor named Kentucky author Silas House as this week's Team Kentucky All-Star following House being awarded the Southern Book Prize. House is a former Kentucky Poet Laureate and nationally known bestselling author of several novels. Last week, House added to his incredible list of accomplishments being awarded the Southern Book Prize for his recent book of poems, "All These Ghosts."

"I've been lucky to know Silas for several years now. In 2023, he was kind enough to write and then read his poem 'Those Who Carry Us' at my second inauguration," said Gov. Beshear. "His ability to speak about and honor the culture of Appalachia in such a beautiful way is really special, and I'm so happy to see his talent recognized. Congratulations, Silas. You are this week's Team Kentucky All-Star."

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