U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $5.7 Million for Building Renovations to Support Workforce Development in Kentucky

Contact: EDA Public Affairs Department, [email protected]

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is investing $5.7 million in the state of Kentucky for building renovations to support workforce development programs.

The EDA investments announced today are:

The city of Richmond will receive $4.7 million for building renovations to support substance abuse workforce development in the region. This EDA investment will be matched with $1.2 million in local funds and is expected to create nearly 200 jobs and generate $1 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

Maysville Community and Technical College, Maysville, will receive $1 million for building renovations to support workforce development in the welding industry. This EDA investment will be matched with $3.4 million in local funds.

“Building a stronger and more resilient workforce is critical to the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “These EDA investments will provide Kentucky communities with the skills they need to acquire good-paying, quality jobs while also helping to diversify the regional economy.”

“The Economic Development Administration works closely with local communities to support place-based economic growth,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and External Affairs, performing the non-exclusive functions and duties of the Assistant Secretary for Economic Development Cristina Killingsworth. “These investments will bolster the state of Kentucky’s economy by providing workforce development in essential, sustainable industries.”

“In the past four years, Kentucky has experienced record-shattering economic growth and job creation,” said Governor Andy Beshear. “We need a skilled workforce to fill those jobs, and this funding from the EDA will support our economy, our communities and our people. We’re working every day to make sure our people have every opportunity to chase their dreams right here in Kentucky.”

“Access to the right resources is vital in the fight against substance abuse, and this grant will equip Madison County with essential care, support, and job opportunities,” said Congressman Andy Barr (KY-6). “I was pleased to advocate for this federal funding and look forward to seeing the impact this project has on our community.”

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation’s regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.