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Staff Report

On Tuesday, Gov. Andy Beshear announced a $500,000 state grant, paired with a local match from the Winchester-Clark County Industrial Development Authority (WCCIDA), to provide $1 million in upgrades at the Winchester Industrial Park.

The investment through the state’s pilot PDI program will accommodate a pre-engineered 70-acre, rail-served site and allow work to begin on tree clearing and grading in the industrial park.

The pilot PDI program was created in partnership between the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and the Kentucky Association for Economic Development (KAED).

“Whenever we get an opportunity to make Kentucky a more attractive destination for companies looking to relocate or expand, we are going to take it,” said Beshear. “This is an exciting step forward for the Clark County community to bring quality companies and jobs to the area. I am happy to see the growth of our site development efforts across the commonwealth and look forward to the future success of this site in Winchester.”

Local leaders expressed their gratitude for the grant.

Clark County Judge-Executive Henry Branham said the commitment of this joint investment will put the community in a better place where available properties are concerned.

“The speed of business in today’s economy is right now,” said Branham. “We must position ourselves further down the line of being ready for an opportunity. This partnership between the commonwealth and our community does just that. We are so thankful for the collaboration and support we continue to receive from Frankfort.”

Winchester Mayor Ed Burtner said the matching fund grant is much appreciated and a necessary step to aid in Winchester’s ability to assist existing industries with expansion efforts, as well as companies looking to relocate and begin operations quickly and efficiently.

“The city of Winchester is extremely grateful for the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, the Kentucky Association for Economic Development, and the PDI program,” Burtner said. “The support shown by these entities is paramount. This is a great example of multiple organizations coming together for the betterment of the commonwealth, one community at a time.”

Brad Sowden, executive director of the Winchester-Clark County Industrial Development Authority, is excited to begin the process of providing additional quality sites for the commonwealth.

“This matching grant will enable us to begin the process of establishing a great site, poised for investment and jobs,” said Sowden. “I want to thank the Governor’s Office, KCED and KAED for their confidence in and commitment to Winchester. This is a big project for us, and the assistance will benefit our community significantly.”