Kentucky Public Riverports Receive Nearly $1.5 Million
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear announced nearly $1.5 million for a third round of funding on March 19 to enhance Kentucky’s riverports and increase economic opportunities, efficiency and connectivity for Kentucky industries. The funds are spread across six projects at five of Kentucky’s public riverports.
“Kentucky’s success is only possible when we continue to invest in safe and efficient infrastructure,” Beshear said. “Strengthening our riverports supports our economy today and for years to come, allowing everyone to thrive in our New Kentucky Home.”
The funding comes from a grant program established by the 2024 General Assembly and approved by Beshear. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is responsible for administering the funds.
Kentucky Public Riverport Construction and Maintenance (KPRCM) program funding invests $7.5 million per fiscal year to improve riverport facilities and infrastructure for new construction, major replacement or repair projects.
Henderson County Riverport Authority received $208,890 to replace a material handler to help offload and move goods more efficiently. Eddyville Riverport and Industrial Development Authority received $515,075 for a project to increase storage capacity for barges from 12 to 18 total. Owensboro Riverport Authority received $381,743 to repave and widen the access road that serves all trucks entering and exiting warehouses on the complex. Two other riverports, the Hickman-Fulton County Riverport Authority and Paducah-McCracken County Riverport Authority, received funds totaling more than $300,000 for material loading upgrades.
“Team Kentucky understands the importance of all modes of transportation to help our state prosper,” Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray said. “The investments we make today will continue to serve Kentuckians for years to come.”
This is the third round of KPRCM grants to be announced this fiscal year. In August 2024, the governor announced just over $5 million in investment for eight riverport projects. The second round was announced in January of this year, providing $1 million for two riverports.
