Eddyville, Ky. Port Receives State Grant Funding

The Eddyville (Ky.) Riverport & Industrial Development Authority is receiving more than $48,000 in state grant money for critical safety improvements.

Gov. Andy Beshear announced the award February 25. It will fund half of the cost of installing a guardrail along the access ramps that lead to a grain unloading pit. The guardrail will be backfilled with stone to increase safety and efficiency for riverport employees.

The $48,415 grant was recommended by the Kentucky Water Transportation Advisory Board and administered by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. The 2020 General Assembly appropriated the funding for the grants.

In September, the port was awarded $109,890 toward repair of the erosion of banks supporting a boat lift near a boat repair bay. That project involved the driving of sheet piling along the bank, backfilling with embankment material and capping with rock.

Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray said the state has a comprehensive transportation system comprising multiple modes.

 “Our waterways and riverports are as indispensable as air, rail and highway for the movement of cargo and bulk commodities,” Gray said. “They create high-wage jobs, support our economy and help keep Kentucky competitive.”