In a concerted effort spearheaded by Senate Majority Whip Mike Wilson, R-Bowling Green, Senate President Pro-Tempore David Givens, R-Greensburg, and Senator Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, along with state House of Representative delegates representing Warren County, millions of dollars have been secured over the next two years to bolster local road projects in the area.
Wilson expressed enthusiasm, stating, “Collaborating with our House counterparts has been invaluable. They share our vision for impactful initiatives in our districts and communities.”
Notable allocations from House Bill (HB) 1 include $50 million directed to the Hardin-Warren County Loan Pool, with $20 million designated for the Kentucky Transpark project, $20 million for the Barren River Area Development District for a substance use disorder services pilot program, and $602,000 for beautification along the Interstate 65 corridor in Warren County.
Further, House Bill (HB) 266, part of the state’s two-year road plan, saw Wilson, Givens, and Wise advocating for and securing over $122.74 million for various projects in the county. Key endeavors entail widening US Highway 31 West, extending Three Springs Road, enhancing connectivity to Transpark, and numerous other initiatives aimed at improving mobility and safety. General fund support, augmented by leveraging $450 million from the state’s budget reserve trust fund through HB 1, underpins these critical infrastructure projects.
Moreover, the collective efforts of Wilson, Givens, and Wise extend to a range of improvements throughout the county, including road enhancements, roundabout construction, and safety improvements, reflecting a comprehensive approach to address the region’s transportation needs.
House Joint Resolution 91 outlines scheduled projects and anticipated requirements for the remaining four years of the six-year highway construction plan, with specific Warren County initiatives detailed for reference.
Additionally, significant funding provisions from HB 6 will benefit Western Kentucky University (WKU), supporting initiatives such as LifeWorks, university inflation adjustments, and programs like the Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science and the Kentucky Mesonet, among others.
The 2024 Legislative Session adjourned on Monday, April 15, marking the culmination of these collaborative endeavors aimed at enhancing infrastructure and educational opportunities within the region.