Clarksdale, Miss. – The Delta Regional Authority (DRA), in collaboration with the commonwealth of Kentucky, is investing more than $1.6 million toward four projects in Western Kentucky through its States’ Economic Development Assistance Program (SEDAP) — one of DRA’s main investment tools.
A coordinated effort among DRA, its Board of Governors and Local Development Districts, SEDAP aims to improve basic public infrastructure, transportation infrastructure, business development and job training in communities across DRA’s eight-state service region. This year in Kentucky, four projects were selected for SEDAP funding at an investment of over $1.6 million.
“The States’ Economic Development Assistance Program is one of DRA’s most diverse tools that allow us to expand and invest in the resiliency of the region’s public infrastructure and workforce,” said Dr. Corey Wiggins, DRA Federal Co-Chairman. “Thanks to this investment, four communities in Western Kentucky will soon see advances in its workforce, infrastructure and broadband delivery, improving resident’s quality of life and increasing economic prosperity in their areas.”
For these projects, DRA coordinated directly with the Office of the Governor for the Commonwealth of Kentucky and its Local Development Districts for program funding implementation.
“The DRA has been a great partner to communities across Kentucky,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “These projects provide critical training and support for Kentuckians, ensuring they land that next great job so they can provide for their family. When we work together, we can make real progress for our people.”
SEDAP award recipients in the commonwealth of Kentucky include:
Henderson Community College was awarded approximately $430,000 to purchase state-of-the-art equipment for its new electrical technology training program to stimulate real-world electrical systems, supporting local workforce development initiatives and enabling additional job creation in Henderson and Union counties.
West Kentucky Workforce Board was awarded $509,000 to expand high-demand workforce training priorities by offering credentialing, work-based learning, on-the-job training, pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship opportunities that connect untapped talent to sustainable careers, strengthening the workforce talent pipeline, meeting employer demand, reducing outmigration and creating inclusive growth.
Paducah McCracken County Joint Sewer Agency was awarded $509,000 for a pump station enhancement project that will address urgent infrastructure deficiencies in McCracken County and the broader Purchase Area region, improving treatment services to vulnerable populations while also enhancing economic competitiveness within the area.
Hickman Electric System was awarded approximately $168,000 for the construction of a fiber-to-the-home network in the City of Hickman to provide efficient broadband and cable service and access to underserved residents and existing customers.
For more information about SEDAP, visit www.dra.gov.
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