Funding part of $117 million federal package supporting Kentucky airports, highways and economic development projects
The Somerset-Pulaski Economic Development Authority (SPEDA) will receive $1.45 million in federal funds for a critical infrastructure investment at SPEDA Commerce Park that will improve access, support future industrial development, and strengthen Somerset-Pulaski County’s long-term economic growth.
The appropriation, secured by U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, will fund construction of an overpass to safely and efficiently connect SPEDA Commerce Park to Ky. 80 (Hal Rogers Parkway), a major traffic corridor. The overpass is a key component of the park’s master infrastructure plan, enabling employees, customers, and commercial traffic to travel seamlessly from the park to Ky. 80 while minimizing impacts on Barnesburg Road, which divides the property.
The funding is part of a larger $117 million package for Kentucky airports, highways and economic development projects included in the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations for Transportation-Housing and Urban Development, which passed the Senate. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Sen. McConnell played a key role in shaping the legislation. The measure now goes to President Donald Trump for his signature.
“From Barren, Pulaski, and McCreary Counties to Louisville and Owensboro, I’m proud to have helped secure this funding for economic development projects across the Commonwealth,” McConnell said. “This federal funding will help revitalize important locations and infrastructure throughout our communities and promote development in our cities and towns.”
SPEDA Commerce Park is Somerset-Pulaski County’s first industrial park development in more than three decades. Securing the infrastructure needed to support the park’s growth has been one of SPEDA’s top priorities, President & CEO Chris Girdler said.
“For several years, SPEDA has actively pursued federal funding to construct a new bridge crossing Barnesburg Road. This investment represents a significant win for The Capital of Lake Cumberland and a major step forward for economic development in our region,” Girdler said. “We are grateful for Senator McConnell’s leadership and continued support of Somerset-Pulaski County, which gets us another step forward in completing a project that unlocks the full potential of SPEDA Commerce Park.”
This appropriation covers half of the project cost. Girdler said SPEDA will continue to work with McConnell’s office and the Kentucky General Assembly to secure additional funding.
Formerly known as the Garner property in the Pine Hill and Barnesburg Road area, SPEDA Commerce Park is a 142-acre state-certified, build-ready development featuring eight parcels. A build-ready site enables buyers to bypass much of the red tape typically required when establishing a new location, as it addresses needs and concerns before they arise. It also allows for quick decision-making in site selection.
SPEDA Commerce Park’s first tenant, the Kentucky National Guard, announced its intentions in 2020 to build a new regional readiness center and field maintenance shop on 18 acres. Since then, SPEDA has sold 11 acres of the park to a private developer who intends to build a large-scale commercial and retail complex facing Ky. 80, and is marketing its remaining sites.
The organization has received more than $3 million in Kentucky Product Development Initiative grant funds to expand park infrastructure and develop sites that meet build-ready standards.
“This project is about more than roads or an overpass — it’s about positioning Somerset-Pulaski County for long-term success,” Girdler said. “By investing in smart, forward-looking infrastructure, we are creating safer access, supporting future job creation, and sending a clear message that our community is prepared to compete for new industry and opportunity. This is meaningful for our region and the people who call it home, and we are grateful to Sen. McConnell for going to work on our behalf.”