6 riverport projects to share in $1.5 million grant

To enhance Kentucky’s riverports and increase economic opportunities

FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) – Gov. Andy Beshear has announced nearly $1.5 million for a third round of funding to enhance Kentucky’s riverports and increase economic opportunities, efficiency and connectivity for Kentucky industries to be used for six projects at five of Kentucky’s public riverports.

“Kentucky’s success is only possible when we continue to invest in safe and efficient infrastructure," Beshear said. "Strengthening our riverports supports our economy today and for years to come, allowing everyone to thrive in our New Kentucky Home.”  

The funding comes from a grant program established by the 2024 General Assembly and signed into law by Gov. Beshear. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is responsible for administering the funds.

Henderson County Riverport Authority received $208,890 to replace a material handler to help offload and move goods more efficiently.

Eddyville Riverport and Industrial Development Authority received $515,075 for a project to increase storage capacity for barges from 12 to 18 total. The Owensboro Riverport Authority received $381,743 to repave and widen the access road that serves all trucks entering and exiting warehouses on the complex.

Two other riverports, the Hickman-Fulton County Riverport Authority and Paducah-McCracken County Riverport Authority, received funds totaling more than $300,000 for material loading upgrades.

“Team Kentucky understands the importance of all modes of transportation to help our state prosper,” said Transportation Secretary Jim Gray. “The investments we make today will continue to serve Kentuckians for years to come.”

The Kentucky Public Riverport Construction and Maintenance (KPRCM) program invests $7.5 million in funding each fiscal year to improve the state’s riverport facilities, as well as infrastructure for new construction, major replacement or repair projects. 

During the first two rounds of funding during this fiscal year, which began July 1, 2024, and runs through June 30, 2025, in August 2024, Beshear announced a just over $5 million investment for eight riverport projects. The second round, which was announced in January 2025, provided $1 million for two riverports.