It’s Been a Good Year for Russell County!

Russell County Industrial Development Authority Year in Review

Even with the strains of the pandemic, Russell County saw significant progress and new investments in 2021. The Russell County Industrial Development Authority (RCIDA) continues to work for economic development in our region by creating an industry-ready environment and facilitating invitations to potential businesses and site selectors.

Two businesses announced developments in Russell County: Neat Distributing is building a manufacturing facility to produce high-density polyethylene drainage pipe, a 5.2 million investment, and Davis Gate & Wire Manufacturing is expanding operations with a new 75,000 sq ft facility near Jamestown. Both projects are currently under construction and should begin employing next year.

2021 saw the opening of the Lake Cumberland Regional College and Workforce Center (a great resource for students and industry), and initial funding was secured for building a new AgriTech education center on property donated by the RCIDA in the Lake Cumberland Regional Industrial Complex Site One. The future looks bright for education and workforce development in our region!

An updated master plan was developed for the newly expanded Site One industrial park, and improvements to the site include an extensive water mitigation project to enhance site drainage.

In April, news came that Russell County had been selected for a 60 Megawatt solar electric generation facility. The 475-acre site is projected to be operational in 2023.

This year construction began on a new terminal building at the Russell County Airport, funded by a $449,892 federal grant. The new facility will include office space, an attendant counter, lobby, meeting room, kitchen, and pilot lounge.

The Cumberland Parkway was officially redesignated as an “Expressway.” While this might seem trivial, it’s important for international site selection as the term “parkway” is thought of as a service road in many other countries. “Expressway” accurately reflects the Interstate standards the highway is built to and makes Russell County’s strategic location more understandable.

The RCIDA board of directors hosted a variety of guests this year including Rocky Adkins, senior advisor to Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, 83rd District State Representative Josh Branscum, and 16th District State Senator Max Wise. Monthly board meetings are open and interested members of the business community are invited to attend.

To learn more about the business environment in Russell County and keep up with the latest developments, visit the RCIDA website at rcidaky.com and follow on Linkedin and Facebook.