Federal funding appropriated to continue work of remediation and revitalization at PGDP

When appropriations for Commerce-Justice-Science; Interior–Environment; and Energy-Water were passed back in January, several projects important to Kentucky had funding included.

Senator Mitch McConnell’s Office noted that over $540 million will be flowing to the Commonwealth and a large portion is coming to Paducah and McCracken County for projects at the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant site. The bulk of the money, some $340 million, is for the continuation of the decontamination and remediation work at the site.

An additional $41 million has been allocated for the construction of an administration building to replace one on the site that has outlived its working life. The new building would help support the planned developments coming to the area, as well as potential future development of artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, and other technologies that could locate on the property.

Senator McConnell said, “These federal investments deliver long-overdue cleanup at the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant while positioning the site for the future. By fully funding environmental remediation and modernizing facilities, we are protecting public health, supporting workers, and laying the groundwork for next-generation manufacturing and advanced technologies in Western Kentucky.”

Sandra Wilson, Paducah Chamber President/CEO, said, “We appreciate Senator McConnell’s support in securing the funding for the new building at the Paducah DOE site.  This facility represents the future for the site, which will remain an important part of our community for decades to come.”

Site preparation has begun at and near the site for the construction of facilities to enrich uranium once again. Both General Matter and Global Laser Enrichment plan to have facilities operational by the end of the decade.


DOE File Photo