By Hayley Robb, Building Kentucky
In May 2022, the Kentucky Legislature approved $35 million in unallocated funds to support regional water system improvements for Bullitt, Hardin, Meade and Nelson counties.
The legislative success would not have been possible without the coalition of support from regional water suppliers, economic development professionals and elected officials.
The region is poised for growth with the announcement of the Ford Motor Company BlueOval SK Battery Plant, Nucor Steel and the booming bourbon industry, increasing the overall need for a reliable, high-quality water source.
Louisville Water Company reiterated this message and shared its “Water Grows KY” campaign with the Bardstown Rotary Club, part of a comprehensive speaker’s bureau planned through 2022.
Water Grows KY is a statewide educational initiative, highlighting water’s vital and often unexpected role in Kentucky’s signature industries – agriculture, distilling and brewing, education, health care and manufacturing.
Louisville Water Company’s Vince Guenthner discussed the importance of water infrastructure to economic development and how new water lines and expanded service will increase opportunities for the entire community.
A few of Louisville Water’s valued partners attended the presentation on Wednesday, acknowledging the need for reliable water infrastructure to support the county’s long-range water supply.
“This partnership is critical for the region’s continued success and growth,” said Cole Cissell, general manager of North Nelson Water District and coalition member. “Our coalition of water leaders is helping bring a sustainable, redundant and reliable water supply not only to Nelson County residents, but so many others, and I think that’s pretty special.”
The Water Grows KY presentation builds on several exciting partnerships and announcements, including the new Heaven Hill Distillery coming to Bardstown. Governor Andy Beshear and local officials in Nelson County broke ground on Heaven Hill’s new $135 million, state-of-the-art distillery in June 2022, creating 38 full-time jobs and eventually more tourism to the region.
To learn more about the Water Grows KY campaign and how water can grow your business, visit WaterGrowsKY.com.