CORBIN, Ky. (Aug. 29, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear and U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced nearly $26 million to help support education, tourism and economic development in Kentucky’s Appalachian region. The funding was announced at the annual SOAR conference in Corbin.
Fifteen recipients in 11 counties are receiving the funds as part of the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) Program. When completed, the projects are expected to retain or create more than 3,500 jobs and train up to 1,200 Kentuckians annually.
Projects receiving funding will expand quality health care throughout the region, improve drinking water and wastewater treatment facilities, enhance high-tech training and employment opportunities, and support economic development and tourism. Infrastructure improvements will serve 240 businesses and more than 17,000 households. Community wellness projects will treat 900,000 people annually, and tourism projects are expected to bring nearly 110,000 new visitors to the region each year.
“Eastern Kentucky has a bright future and investments like the ones we announced today are going to ensure that’s true for generations to come,” said Gov. Beshear. “Team Kentucky is laser focused on providing opportunity for our workforce, building resilient communities, and delivering state-of-the-art services to our families, while we continue to do the work that’s fueling our red-hot economy.”
Congressman Rogers, who championed the program as chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, has overseen $1 billion in federal funding go toward AMLER since 2016, of which more than $253 million has been awarded for more than 100 projects.
“These grants are investing in strong projects that will support economic growth and stability in our coal communities,” said Congressman Rogers. “We are fast-tracking projects that will create new jobs and improve tourism, health care, education, emergency services and infrastructure in southern and eastern Kentucky. Our best days are ahead of us and these projects ensure that we are on the right path for innovation and revitalization.”
Energy and Environment Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Goodman selected the projects for initial vetting by the U.S. Office of Surface Mining, Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE). A record number of 85 applications (requesting over $302 million) were received for consideration by the Cabinet’s Division of Abandoned Mine Lands.
“Selecting these projects is no easy task,” Secretary Goodman said. “Each one has exceptional value and community benefit. It’s rewarding to be part of it and to watch as the projects are completed.”
Since the beginning of Gov. Beshear’s administration, 66 AMLER projects have been awarded totaling nearly $140 million. Twenty-four projects have been completed.
The projects selected for funding through the $25.95 million 2025 AMLER grant funding include:
The Aviation STEM Career Training Initiative in Greenup County was selected to receive $1.02 million to establish an Aviation STEM training program for high school students in Boyd, Carter and Greenup counties. The program will provide FAA-certified flight instruction.
AMLER funding will be used to purchase fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft and flight simulators; provide classroom improvements, curriculum materials, aircraft insurance, maintenance and outreach; and hire personnel. The project anticipates graduating 15 students per year with FAA certification.
“There is nothing better in Kentucky than providing opportunities for our students and giving them another option when choosing a career path,” said Greenup County Judge/Executive Bobby Hall. “With the Aviation STEM Career Training Initiative, high school students will not just learn about aviation, they will open a door to a high-wage, high-demand career that those before them did not have. I want to personally thank everyone involved. This program addresses the national pilot shortage and strengthens our workforce in Greenup County and Northeastern Kentucky.”
The City of Ashland Conference Center, a planned 30,000 square-foot facility in Boyd County, was selected to receive $2 million for technology infrastructure, furnishings and parking. The center is expected to create 191 new jobs within five years of completion and a $500,000 increase in tourism revenue.
“The city of Ashland is thrilled about its upcoming conference center, one of the largest economic development projects in our city’s history,” said Erika Bonner, Ashland’s public information officer. “Located in the heart of downtown Ashland, this facility will showcase the very best of our area, serving as a gathering place for events and opportunities while offering state-of-the-art technology, hospitality and great service. We look forward to creating jobs, attracting visitors and creating a space our community is proud of.”
An Environmental Resiliency, Water Quality and Tank Rehabilitation Project in Cannonsburg was selected to receive $1.5 million to strengthen the resiliency of the city’s water system. AMLER funding will be used to install natural gas and diesel generators, and mixing systems at the storage facilities, and to repair storage tanks. The project will improve water quality through the reduction of contaminants in the system, improve service and responsiveness during disasters, and extend the life of the storage facilities.
“Over the years, increasingly severe climate change and environmental degradation have placed growing pressure on water infrastructure across Kentucky. These challenges have made it more difficult to maintain consistent access to clean, safe, and reliable water—especially during times of crisis,” said Cannonsburg Water District Manager Tim Webb. “Through this project, we will not only enhance the overall quality of the water but will also strengthen the system’s resilience. This means we’ll be better equipped to ensure uninterrupted water service even in the face of natural disasters and extreme weather events, safeguarding public health and supporting community stability when it’s needed most.”
The Hilltop Park Pavilion in the city of Hyden was selected to receive $300,000 to construct a pavilion and splash pad for the community. When completed, the pavilion is expected to increase visitors by 200-300 yearly.
Hyden Mayor Carol Joseph said, “This funding is very beneficial to Hyden. We utilize our outdoor spaces and The Biggerstaff Trails are utilized by the whole county. It has long been a dream to build a gazebo for weddings, parties or reunions. It is a perfect spot nestled in the mountains and overlooking the town. We are thrilled to have our dream realized by the AMLER grant.”
The Lake Point Sewer Extension Project in the city of Jackson was selected to receive $1.58 million to install 4,500 linear feet of sewer lines to connect to an unserved area along Panbowl Road. The project will provide sewer service to 15 new customers and allow for future development opportunities.
“The city of Jackson is excited to hear that we will receive AMLER funding for the Lake Point Sewer Extension,” said Jackson Mayor Laura Thomas. “This project will extend sanitary sewer services to homes in the city limits that currently do not have access to municipal sewer services. These new services will help reduce health risks, improve water quality, and support economic development. We are very grateful for the funding.”
The Lynch Motorsports Welcome Center in Harlan County was selected to receive $260,000 for Phase II of the project. A 2020 AMLER grant renovated the Lynch Motorsports Visitors Center. Backroads of Appalachia plans to use the 2025 funding to resurface the parking area and install safety features, a welcome center sign and the immensely popular signature board, which is signed by thousands of visitors annually. The center is expected to welcome 40,000 visitors yearly.
“Backroads of Appalachia is honored to receive Phase II of the Lynch Welcome Center through the Abandoned Mine Lands program,” said Erik Hubbard, director of Backroads of Appalachia. “This phase will bring a new parking lot to complement the beautifully renovated welcome center, known worldwide as the Dragon Slayer. What was once a coal community landmark has become one of the top motorcycle and car destinations in the region, drawing thousands of visitors from across the country and the globe. At its core, this project represents more than just infrastructure – it is about driving economic development through motorsports and creating new opportunities for Harlan County and the people of Eastern Kentucky.”
The Magoffin Pediatric Expansion at Big Sandy Health Care was selected to receive $1.3 million for the redesign of the second floor, adding five exam rooms and two provider offices, and expanding the waiting room and common spaces. The construction project will create three jobs and will increase patient care by 1,000 by the second year of operation.
CEO of Big Sandy Health Care James W. Herald III said, “Big Sandy Health Care Inc. is honored to be selected as a 2025 AMLER award recipient. With this award, BSHC plans to renovate Hope Family Health Services-Pediatrics facility in Salyersville in order to break down barriers and expand access to pediatric services in the economically declining, coal-impacted communities of Magoffin County. Because of the generous support of AMLER, the results of this project will stimulate the local economy by creating health-care jobs, attracting families to stay or return, and increasing access to essential quality pediatric care close to home. Thank you for helping BSHC expand access to pediatric health care.”
The Mountain Comprehensive Health Corporation Autism Clinic in Letcher County was selected to receive $1.5 million to establish an autism clinic to support families with children in need of screening, evaluation and treatment. AMLER funding will support the administration, engineering, and construction of the project, which will create 30 jobs and serve over 500 children annually.
“Mountain Comprehensive Health Corporation is honored to be awarded an AMLER grant for the development of the new, state-of-the-art MCHC autism clinic for children,” said Teresa Dotson, director of Financial Affairs. “The new MCHC Autism Clinic for Children will serve as a comprehensive resource for both children and their families. The clinic’s focus will be twofold: to help children with autism develop essential skills needed to navigate daily life, and to empower families with the tools and knowledge necessary to support their child’s growth. The clinic will also work with local school systems to prepare the child to become a student so they can have the same opportunities for education and development as other children.”
The Nursing Live and Learn Dormitory at Union Commonwealth University in Knox County was selected to receive $780,000 to help renovate the residential live and learn space for nursing students. The project will create five jobs, and the dormitory will house 125 nursing program students within three years.
President of Union Commonwealth University Dr. D.J. Washington said, “Union has always served the heart of Appalachia. This initiative strengthens that legacy, giving local students the opportunity to train in world-class facilities and serve their neighbors with the skill and compassion our communities deserve. This is a unified investment in Appalachia’s future – keeping talent here, creating good jobs and ensuring our health-care workforce is prepared to meet the needs of today and tomorrow.”
The Paintsville Independent Schools STEAM Program was selected to receive $2.64 million and will support a skilled labor force within the community through education and training. The project will offer programs in applied health sciences, marketing and entrepreneurship, computer programming, culinary arts, and media and sound production. The funding will support general construction, electrical and HVAC installation, and architectural renovations. The STEM program expects to train 400 students yearly.
“This grant will allow us to reimagine how we prepare our students for the future,” said Superintendent Bryan Auxier. “The STEAM Center will provide cutting-edge resources, technology, and collaborative spaces that foster innovation, creativity and hands-on learning. It will be more than a building – it will be a launchpad for student success and community revitalization.
“We are honored to be a recipient of this funding and deeply grateful for the trust placed in us by our federal, state and local leaders. This STEAM Center will stand as a symbol of excellence, renewal, opportunity, and what’s possible when we invest in our children and our future.”
The Pathways Autism Center in Carter County was selected to receive $4.04 million for the construction of a 13,000 square foot autism center. The center will create 50 new jobs and expect to serve 250 clients within the first year.
“The Autism Center in Grayson will serve as a vital resource for our community, offering comprehensive care and support for individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities across the lifespan,” said Pathways, Inc CEO Jennifer Willis. “By providing services for both children and adults, the center will fill a critical gap in access to care, ensuring that families no longer have to travel long distances or go without the specialized support their loved ones need. This center will create opportunities for early intervention, skill-building and long-term supports that promote independence and quality of life while also providing families with guidance and hope. More than a place for services, it will be a hub of inclusion, understanding and progress, representing a commitment to ensuring every person in our community has the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
The Rousseau Volunteer Fire Department’s Tower and Repeater Project was selected to receive $380,000 to implement a modernized mobile radio communications system and construct a 150G tower. The investment will improve critical infrastructure to support community resilience, improve coordination and enhance safety for nearly 1,200 citizens within the Rouseau community.
Rousseau Volunteer Fire Department Chief Greg Wilson said, “This grant funding will help Rousseau Volunteer Fire Department have suitable radio coverage for all 911 runs. This will give us the capability of getting in touch with EMS or law enforcement when the need arises, even with no cell phone coverage. This grant funding will not only help Rousseau Fire Department in everyday emergencies but will also let the citizens know that we have the needed equipment to respond in a timely manner. This will help every citizen of Rousseau. We cannot thank everyone that has been involved in helping us secure this grant, and on behalf of Rousseau Volunteer Fire Department, we want to say thanks to all.”
Saint Joseph Health System in London was selected to receive $650,000 to purchase a CT Scanner to improve cancer, cardio, neurological, and trauma care in the region.
“As president of Saint Joseph Health System, I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Gov. Beshear and the entire team,” said Matt Grimshaw, market CEO. “Saint Joseph London operates the busiest emergency department in our health system with 34,000 annual visits, as well as the highest number of imaging volumes. In order for us to honor our commitment to provide comprehensive treatment and care, we at Saint Joseph London understand that diagnosing patients is the very first step in the healing journey. Providing our hospital with this grant will allow us to purchase a CT scanner which is fundamental in diagnosing brain, spine, abdominal, heart, and stroke patients. Over a three-year period, this project will provide 19,200 CT scans, 9.3 million in net patient services revenue, and $925,954 in charity care for patients uninsured and underinsured. Most importantly, this CT scanner will benefit the London community by providing precise diagnoses and improving subsequent health outcomes.”
The Somerset Community College Career and Technical Education Training Complex has been selected to receive $6 million to develop a career and technical facility supporting workforce training programs like construction, HVAC, welding, automotive and diesel technology, electrical technology, and industrial maintenance. AMLER funds will be used for equipment purchases and classroom furnishings. As a result, the college anticipates a 20% increase in student enrollment and credentials earned within three years of completion.
“We’re excited and thankful to be a recipient of this AMLER grant,” said Dr. Carey Castle, president and CEO of Somerset Community College. “The College will be able to focus on upgrading our programs with new equipment and furniture for our new Technical Building at the Laurel campus in London. Our goal is to make this building a centerpiece for business and industry in Southeast Kentucky, and by bringing in the latest training tools to match our business and industry partners’ needs, we will be able to train future employees at a level exceeding their expectations. Our Technical Building brings a new look to the historical Interstate Coal Company and a new pathway for the students and communities in our region.”
The city of Whitesburg’s Wastewater Treatment Plant has been selected to receive $2 million for facility upgrades that will restore and enhance services for the city. Funds will be used to replace essential infrastructure and technology. The project will serve 969 households and 156 businesses.
“On behalf of myself and the city of Whitesburg, we extend our deepest gratitude for this generous grant,” said Whitesburg Mayor Tiffany Craft. “This investment is more than just funding – it’s an investment in the people of our community and in the future of our city.”
Information about the AMLER program can be found on the Energy and Environment Cabinet website or by contacting James Cable, director, Kentucky Division of Abandoned Mine Lands, 300 Sower Boulevard, Frankfort, KY 40601. Office: 502-782-9913, e-mail: James.Cable@ky.gov.
Today’s announcements further the commitment of the administration to support economic growth and resilience throughout Eastern Kentucky.
On Aug. 18, Gov. Beshear joined local, state and federal officials to break ground on the final section of the Mountain Parkway Expansion – a 13-mile stretch of new four-lane highway that will connect Salyersville in Magoffin County to Prestonsburg in Floyd County. The project is delivering a decades-long promise to complete the parkway and close the only remaining gap in a continuous, four-lane, high-speed corridor linking Eastern Kentucky to the rest of the commonwealth.
Progress continues on Gov. Beshear’s high-ground initiative – eight sites in Eastern Kentucky that will eventually provide over 500 new, affordable homes for flood survivors out of the flood plain.
In July, Team Kentucky broke ground on the first three homes at New Hope Estates in Floyd County. It will be the site of 34 homes. In May, the Governor joined local leaders to celebrate the completion of the Cottages at Thompson Branch high-ground community, the site of 10 new homes. Just this week, five new, affordable homes were dedicated for flood survivors at the Skyview high-ground community in Hazard.
Earlier this year, Site Selection magazine ranked Kentucky in the top five nationally and second in the South Central region for economic development projects per capita in its 2024 Governor’s Cup rankings. Site Selection also placed Kentucky second in the South Central region and No. 6 nationally in its 2025 Prosperity Cup ranking, which recognizes state-level economic development agencies for their success in landing capital investment projects.
At the 2024 SOAR Summit, Gov. Beshear and Congressman announced $30.2 million to help support 12 local projects in eight Eastern Kentucky counties.