Jackson Purchase News

U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has announced that the Paducah-McCracken County Riverport Authority (PMCRA) will receive $418,566 in federal funding to revitalize critical infrastructure at their riverport in Paducah, Kentucky. The funding is made possible through a Delta Regional Authority (DRA) assistance program, which is funded by annual appropriations and the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

Senator McConnell, who led the IIJA to Senate passage two years ago, has been a strong advocate for the development of Kentucky's infrastructure. The IIJA will provide billions of federal dollars over five years to improve the state's roads, bridges, railroads, riverports, airports, broadband, and more.

In support of PMCRA's application, Senator McConnell contacted the DRA and pushed for funding in both the FY2023 federal government appropriations bill and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, McConnell understands the importance of investing in critical infrastructure projects.

The federal funding will be used to restore a major warehouse at the Riverport, which will increase shipping volume on the marine highway system and enhance the port's ability to accommodate the needs of manufacturers and agricultural producers in the region.

Senator McConnell expressed his enthusiasm for the investment, stating, "Paducah has taken full advantage of its geography as the inland waterway capital of the country, and the Riverport is a prime example of this region's impressive growth and potential. This federal investment will facilitate greater interstate commerce throughout the region and pay dividends to the many businesses and families that call Western Kentucky home."

PMCRA Executive Director Tim Cahill also expressed gratitude for the federal grant, recognizing the opportunity it provides to rebuild and position the Riverport as the industry leader of Western Kentucky. He thanked Senator McConnell for his continued support and acknowledged the contributions of the Purchase Area Development District and the rest of Kentucky's delegation.

This federal funding is a testament to the success of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in delivering tangible benefits to communities across the country. It is a clear example of how strategic investments in infrastructure can drive economic growth and create opportunities for businesses and families alike. With this funding, the Paducah Riverport will be revitalized, further solidifying its role as a critical economic hub in the Commonwealth.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=886DC462-7DB1-48A2-9875-6BB8C79EBC11