Governor Andy Beshear joined local leaders in Dawson Springs Wednesday to celebrate seven new homes for 2021 tornado survivors and announced $6.3 million in additional funding to expand internet access, improve roads, support industrial development and to market tourism destinations in the region.
Gov. Beshear said the addition of seven new Habitat for Humanity homes is another step forward in rebuilding from the tornadoes that hit nearly three years ago.
click to download audioThe Governor said six of the homes built by Habitat for Humanity were partially funded with $600,000 from the Team Western Kentucky Relief Fund.
Hopkins County Judge-Executive Jack Whitfield, Jr. thanked the Governor and noted ongoing progress in rebuilding from the 2021 tornadoes.
click to download audioThe Governor also announced additional funding for the City of Madisonville, Dawson Springs and Hopkins County.
He presented a $70,000 check to Madisonville Mayor Kevin Cotton for resurfacing Bacon Boulevard. Mayor Cotton thanked Gov. Beshear, noting the project’s broader significance.
click to download audioBeshear presented a $4.9 million check to Charter Communications for Hopkins County.
click to download audioAdditionally, Beshear presented over $1.1 million to transform a 72-acre property on Rose Creek Road into the county’s largest shovel-ready site. Mayor Cotton expressed gratitude for the funding.
click to download audioGovernor Beshear announced that $2 million has been awarded to West Hopkins Industries to construct a 100,000-square-foot building in Dawson Springs, with an official presentation pending Mayor Jenny Sewell’s presence.
The Governor announced $250,000 for tourism marketing in Hopkins and Christian counties: $150,000 for the Western Kentucky BBQ Belt, and $100,000 for the West Kentucky Distillery Tour.
Hopkinsville Tourism Executive Director Amy Rogers said the funding will boost growth and benefit the region’s economy.
click to download audioPrior to traveling to Dawson Springs, the Governor was in Hopkinsville where he presented over $9 million in funding to Christian County.
Last week, Gov. Beshear announced over $2.5 million from the West Kentucky SAFE Fund to help finance the reconstruction cost of the pool and city park in Dawson Springs.
