ICYMI: Congressman Barr Delivers over $15M in Federal Grants for the Sixth District

Lexington, KY-This week, Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06) presented the Fiscal Year 2026 Community Project announcements to local leaders across Kentucky's Sixth District, highlighting more than $15 million secured for critical infrastructure, public safety, and economic development initiatives throughout Central Kentucky.

Barr worked directly with city officials, county judges, economic development authorities, and first responders to identify projects that address pressing local needs while promoting sustainable economic expansion. Local leaders thanked Congressman Barr, emphasizing how these federal funds will accelerate development for all Kentuckians.

"This year, after multiple fiscal years of continuing resolutions, Congress went through the traditional appropriations process. Returning to normal order means I was able to secure almost 15 and a half million dollars of federal funding for these projects," said Congressman Barr. "From infrastructure projects, to research, to financing firetrucks and local police safety equipment - these funds will help better the communities around the district and will have a massive impact on my constituents' lives. It has been a pleasure working with the local governments around the 6th district that are with me today to ensure that federal funds are directed to projects that matter and don't end up being used for wasted fraud and abuse."

"We are grateful to Congressman Barr for delivering the funding to make this infrastructure project a reality. This investment strengthens our water system, supports economic activity, and positions Bourbon County for continued growth," said Bourbon County Judge/Executive, Michael Williams.

"The North Middletown Volunteer Fire Department, the City of North Middletown and the entire North Middletown community is excited to learn of the approval of our Community Project Funding request. This grant will help us in the purchase of a new fire apparatus, which will increase our abilities for emergency responses. We want to thank Congressman Barr for his help in securing this grant. Without his help this would not have been possible," said Jeff McFarland, who serves as the Mayor and Chief of the North Middleton Fire Department.

"Reliable wastewater systems are essential to public health, community well-being, and responsible development," said Magistrate Chris Davis. "I thank Congressman Barr for his support of Clark County and for recognizing the long-term value of this investment."

"This project is a major step forward for Clark County's long-term growth and industrial stewardship," said Winchester Mayor JoEllen Reed. "Expanding sewer infrastructure in the Hancock Creek Watershed will improve quality of life for our residents, support responsible development, and protect our natural resources for future generations."

"This funding is important for the families and businesses we serve," said Judge/Executive Donnie Watson. "I'm thankful to Congressman Barr for helping us secure it. Replacing aging lines and improving our facilities will put us in a much better position moving forward."

"The University of Kentucky plays a critical role in helping the Commonwealth prepare for the industries shaping our future," said Eli Capilouto, President of the University of Kentucky. "Support for this work at the Center for Applied Energy Research strengthens Kentucky's capacity for innovation, workforce development and economic resilience in a rapidly changing global landscape. We greatly appreciate Congressman Andy Barr's continued partnership in advancing opportunities that benefit communities across the Commonwealth."

"Advanced graphite materials are vital to the technologies that power both our economy and our national defense," said Rodney Andrews, Director of the University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research. "With China dominating much of the global graphite supply chain, investments like this are essential to strengthening America's ability to innovate and manufacture these critical materials at home. This funding enhances our research capabilities, supports workforce development, and reinforces our nation's competitive and defensive edge. We are grateful to Congressman Barr for championing this investment and recognizing the strategic importance of this work."

"We are extremely thankful to Congressman Barr for his leadership and support in securing this funding," said Lancaster Mayor Michael Gaffney. "This project will modernize our wastewater system, take failing pump stations offline, and position our city for future growth, benefiting residents and businesses alike."

"This project is essential for supporting Berea's continued growth," said Mayor of Berea, Bruce Fraley. "I am very grateful for the work put in by Congressman Barr and his staff members who have worked on this. This funding will definitely be put to good use for a greatly needed project."

"Thanks to Congressman Barr, our department will be able to equip officers with modern, life-saving technology," said Harrodsburg Police Chief Scott Elder. "This funding will help us protect our community and ensure our officers have the tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively."

"Congressman Andy Barr has been a strong supporter of the Bluegrass Innovation Gateway from the start," said Sarah Steele, Mercer County Judge/Executive. "His continued advocacy is helping us build the infrastructure needed to create jobs and drive economic growth in Mercer County and throughout the region, and I am grateful to him and his team for their leadership."

"This funding will allow Montgomery County to take a major step toward developing a modern industrial park that meets the needs of today's employers," said Montgomery County Judge/Executive Chris Haddix. "We appreciate Congressman Barr's commitment to ensuring our community has the infrastructure necessary to grow and thrive."

"This project has been a top priority for Nicholas County, and Congressman Barr's leadership made it possible," said Nicholas County Judge Executive Steve Hamilton. "These water improvements will significantly enhance the Regional Industrial Park and help us attract new employers, expand opportunities, and grow our local economy."

"This investment strengthens the partnership between Bourbon and Nicholas counties and positions our Regional Industrial Park for future growth," said Bourbon County Judge Executive Michael Williams. "We're grateful to Congressman Barr for delivering the funding needed to support economic development and job creation across our shared region."

"The $2 million federal investment is a critical step in turning the Triple Crown Business Park into a reality," said Scott County Judge/Executive Joe Pat Covington. "It reflects the strength of Central Kentucky as a regional economy and what we can accomplish when local and regional partners work together to secure support at the federal level. This project will help us attract high-quality employers, expand opportunities for our workforce, and build long-term economic strength for the entire region. We are grateful to Congressman Andy Barr for his leadership and advocacy through the Community Project Funding process on behalf of Central Kentucky. Local governments exist to provide services to our communities and the revenues from new jobs created through this partnership will support those services for years to come. "

"Berea has always valued smart, intentional growth," said Berea Mayor Bruce Fraley. "This funding supports projects that improve safety, access, and opportunity for our residents while respecting the character of our community. We're thankful to Congressman Barr for helping move these priorities forward and delivering resources that make a real difference on the ground."

"Congressman Barr is helping us create jobs for the future through his support for our new regional business park, Central Kentucky Triple Crown Business Park. This funding will help us install the infrastructure that makes the property shovel-ready for businesses interested in locating there," said Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton. "This almost 300-acre business park is unique - it is a regional park. It will provide good jobs for all of Central Kentucky, and tax revenue that will allow governments in Berea and in Madison, Scott and Fayette counties to make improvements."

The infrastructure decisions we make today determine the kind of jobs and opportunities Madison County can deliver for decades to come," said Madison County Judge/Executive Reagan Taylor. "This funding directly supports economic development and the regional park-projects that will help create jobs, attract employers, and grow our local economy. With Congressman Barr's support, Madison County is positioned to compete, invest in our workforce, and deliver measurable results for the people of the Commonwealth."

"Firefighters know that Congressman Andy Barr has our back," said Chief Hendricks. "We greatly appreciate his support and leadership helping bring this grant to our department. We will use this grant to keep our community safe."

"This funding is a significant win for the City of Versailles and Woodford County as it extends Paddock Drive across US 60 by creating turn lanes and road infrastructure at the former Edgewood Farm property," said Versailles Mayor Laura Dake. "I want to thank Congressman Barr for his tireless advocacy in securing this $1.4 million through the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations bill. These improvements to our roads and utility infrastructure will remove barriers to economic development that will benefit our residents and community."

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