FRANKFORT, Ky. — Gov. Andy Beshear said the state will invest $5.5 million in 16 Kentucky public riverport projects to enhance economic activity and support future expansion. The grants will fund dredging, mooring and warehouse repairs, port equipment purchases and other needs, as part of Team Kentucky’s investment in the state’s waterways economy.
At the beginning of 2024, the Kentucky General Assembly allocated and Gov. Beshear approved $15 million for the next two years for the newly created Kentucky Public Riverport Construction and Maintenance (KPRCM) grant. To date, more than $5 million has been awarded for eight projects. Additionally, $500,000 was awarded through the Kentucky Riverport Improvement (KRI) grant for eight projects. The investment will provide funding to maintain current operations and improve current facilities and infrastructure.
“Kentucky is a national leader in logistics, and our riverports are responsible for moving billions of dollars worth of freight,” said Gov. Beshear. “This investment is the first step and we’re just getting started. Each round of approved projects is critical to expanding capacity and doing more business, which means more money stays here in Kentucky.”
Projects were reviewed by the Water Transportation Advisory Board, which recommended the eight KPRCM projects and eight KRI projects for approval from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.
“An investment in our transportation infrastructure is an investment in our economy and in every Kentuckian’s quality of life,” said Secretary Jim Gray. “Our waterways are a vital mode of transportation for the efficient transport of goods, which also reduces wear and tear from vehicle travel on our roadways each year.”
The fund is designed to provide financial support for projects for 10 public riverports currently in the state.
Approved grants must be used to improve riverport facilities and infrastructure for new construction and major replacement or repair projects, including but not limited to the improvement of docks, wharves, equipment, port buildings, storage facilities, roads and railroads to facilitate the flow of commerce through the port, other on-site improvements and related professional services.
Eligible projects do not include routine operations, maintenance or repair activities.
