Jackson Purchase News

U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has announced that the Delta Regional Authority (DRA) will provide $509,000 to the Murray-Calloway Industrial Development Authority (MCIDA). This funding, awarded through the States’ Economic Development Assistance Program, aims to support a new skills training and workforce development facility in Western Kentucky. The initiative targets underemployed and unemployed workers, aiming to enhance their earning potential and address regional worker shortages.

The funding is part of a DRA assistance program backed by the FY2023 government funding bill and the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Senator McConnell, who serves as a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, advocated for this funding during both the annual appropriations process and through his support of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. He also wrote to Dr. Corey Wiggins, Federal Co-Chair of the Delta Regional Authority, endorsing this project.

“Last year’s government funding bill, as well as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, provide big investments for Western Kentucky’s communities," said Senator McConnell. "This project will help hardworking Kentuckians get back to work in their communities while addressing the growing needs of job creators in the Commonwealth. I was proud to support funding for this project and I'll continue to do what I can to ensure federal resources go toward Kentucky’s communities that need them most.”

Mark Manning, Executive Director of MCIDA, expressed gratitude for receiving the award: “MCIDA is thrilled to receive today’s award, which will allow our team to continue expanding this impactful workforce program through the construction of a permanent facility. Our community is thankful for Senator McConnell’s help in bringing home today’s federal grant, and we’re grateful for all he has done to support Western Kentucky over the years.”