USDA Rural Development highlights investments in rural Kentucky

The United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development office is highlighting investments in rural Kentucky.

Those investments range in scope from infrastructure to economic development, broadband, and healthcare.

Kentucky State Director Travis Burton said, “Rural Kentucky is the best place to live, work, and raise a family, and USDA Rural Development is doing our part to make sure it stays that way. Thanks to the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Rollins, we’re delivering modern infrastructure, affordable housing, and new economic opportunities in rural communities. These investments help create measurable improvements in access to clean water, reliable power, broadband connectivity, health care facilities, emergency services, and safe, affordable housing, all while bolstering the local economy.”

One of the largest investments in western Kentucky is the $73.8 million Community Facilities Direct Loan  for the reconstruction of Livingston Hospital in Salem. The money will help modernize and expand that facility, bringing another 56,000 square feet to treat patients. The more modern hospital will provide better and  expanded care to Livingston and the surrounding counties, alleviating some of the need to seek care in larger cities like Paducah, Evansville, or Nashville.

Another project in the Purchase is a grant to expand broadband internet into a portion of Carlisle County. The Community Connect grant will support the efforts of WK&T to deliver high-speed internet to previously underserved portions of Carlisle County.

Other projects included nearly $2 million for wastewater system upgrades for the city of Hardinsburg in Breckenridge County and a nearly $10 million loan for the construction of a hotel in Campbellsville.

The investments are designed to enhance life in the smaller communities across the Commonwealth.

Photo courtesy of Kentucky Rural Broadband Association Facebook page