With the ceremonial groundbreaking for Ascend Elements set for 11 AM, October 20 in Hopkinsville’s Commerce Park II, more is at stake than the promised commitment of 250 jobs, $310 million in development and the arrival of a major industry.
It’s also going to signify the next phase of the capital complex, which will almost certainly incubate more business around this announcement and construction.
Carter Hendricks, executive director for the South Western Kentucky Economic Development Council, notes that Ascend’s announcement is already generating considerable buzz.
Among many noted dignitaries, Governor Andy Beshear is expected to be in attendance.
Furthermore, a day before Elevate Windows and Doors LLC announced its purchase of the newest spec building and $16 million jobs investment, Hendricks assured that SWK EDC has remained engaged with a number of active clients.
The arrival of a 53-mile gas line from Guthrie, along the state line, and up to Lamasco also has the full attention of Hendricks and his staff. The amount of backbone infrastructure it’s going to provide along the border of Kentucky-Tennessee and up the I-24 corridor has a chance to provide the proper power sources necessary for major development.
Hendricks added that west Kentucky’s gas supply will be more than ample in the coming months.
In other EDC news:
— The Casey Jones Distillery will host its groundbreaking for expansion at 4:30 PM, October 6.
— The Industry Appreciation Luncheon has been set for 11:30 AM, October 19, at the Bruce Convention Center in Hopkinsville. Tickets are $25 for non-industrial attendees. Industries in southwestern Kentucky attend for free. Calls can be made to Sharon Butts at (270) 885-1499 for reservations.
