PIKEVILLE, Ky. — Speaking at the SOAR summit which got underway Wednesday at the Appalachian Wireless Arena, Gov. Andy Beshear and U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers announced $24.4 million in funding for economic development projects in Eastern Kentucky.

The money will pay for 11 projects which are expected to create or retain 200 jobs.

“Once again, this program is funding innovative projects that are bringing jobs to Eastern Kentucky so more of our families can provide for their loved ones and live the lives they want and deserve,” Beshear said. “The foundation has been laid for diversified economic growth as each of these projects is completed, helping these communities not only rebuild following July’s historic flooding but also thrive for generations to come.”

“As we continue to rebuild from the catastrophic flood in Eastern Kentucky, these grant awards are more important than ever before to advance job creation and new opportunities,” Rogers said. “These grants will give Eastern Kentuckians more opportunities to work and thrive in their hometowns.”

Projects awarded funds include:

• Agricultural Apple Packing and Sorting Facility was selected to receive $6.6 million for the installation of an apple packing and sorting facility in an existing building in Martin County.
• CMH 23 Workforce and Tourism Development Project was selected to receive $1 million to modify and equip the broadcasting studio at the Mountain Arts Studio in Floyd County.
• Elliott County Emergency Operations Center and 911 Center was selected to receive $4.6 million to construct an emergency services center. 
• Gifford Road Industrial Park was selected to receive $1 million to construct a build-ready certified site for a 50,000 square foot facility in Magoffin County.
• Impact Outdoor Adventures RV Campground was selected to receive $900,000 to construct a multi-purpose building, yurts, and a tree-top adventure course in Clay County.
• Southeast Transportation Training Center was selected to receive $1.2 million to develop a CDL and diesel mechanics training facility in Knox County.
• Stearns RV Park and Campground was selected to receive $1.6 million to construct an RV park and campground in McCreary County.
• Thunder Ridge Property Acquisition was awarded $3 million to purchase 58 acres to develop the Thunder Ridge Industrial Park, where Boxvana intends to construct a 200,000 square foot facility in Floyd County.
• Raven Rock Resort was selected to receive $1.7 million to begin development on the Raven Rock Resort in Letcher County.
• Hazel Green Wastewater Collection System Phase I was selected to receive $1.4 million to construct an 80,000-gallon-per-day wastewater treatment plant in Wolfe County. 
• Royalton Trail Town Development Phase II was selected to receive $2 million to construct a visitors center, restaurant, entertainment space and parking in Magoffin County.

The projects are funded through the Abandoned Mine Lands Economic Revitalization program.