According to a press release sent out Wednesday, McConnell's office announced that Paducah would receive a $10.4 million "Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development" (BUILD) grant. Paducah will put the funding towards supporting the Paducah Riverfront Infrastructure Project to develop numerous transportation assets to ensure the safety of visitors and commerce within the city.
According to officials involved in the project, the project will include expansion of the shipping container transfer yard, riverfront excursion pier and plaza to provide a safe landing and pathway for riverboat guests, bikers, and pedestrians from downtown to the riverfront.
McConnell stated that he was proud to be able to work with Mayor Brandi Harless, Judge-Executive Craig Clymer, and other local leaders towards the development of the riverfront, saying that he was constantly on the lookout for new opportunities for the region.
Paducah Mayor Brandi Harless spoke with West Kentucky Star about the funding, saying, "This is a big deal for the city of Paducah. We worked really hard for this funding and we're very thankful to Senator McConnell and all of our federal delegation for helping us get this funding."
Harless continued, "We're excited to see a new developed riverfront to finish out what's already been started down there. We will have a new excursion peer and plaza for all of the steam boats that come and visit us every year, we'll have a new kind of park-like environment down by the transient boat dock, we'll see bike rentals, and more accessibility for our disabled residents. There's a lot that's going to come from this award for sure."
“Senator McConnell continues to answer our call for federal assistance in developing and beautifying Paducah and McCracken County. He deserves our thanks and support,” said McCracken County Judge Executive Craig Clymer.
McConnell had previously assisted Paducah in receiving over $9 million for the Paducah Waterfront Development Project, as well as funding for the Paducah flood-wall project.
