New Water Plant in Ashland

New Water Plant in Ashland

Charles Romans

The Ashland Beacon

Representatives from state and local governments gathered at The Depot in Ashland to celebrate the groundbreaking of a much-needed new water facility scheduled to begin construction in Ashland, Kentucky. Ashland Mayor Chuck Charles welcomed everyone to the event and introduced guest speakers, including Congressman Hal Rogers (Kentucky’s Fifth Congressional District) and Senior Advisor to Kentucky Governor Rocky Adkins.

“This has been a long time coming,” Mayor Charles told those in attendance. Charles traced the beginnings of the project back to 2010 and announced that construction had already begun, bringing the 16-year project to fruition. “Strand Associates Engineering designed the facility,” Charles said. “And the project was awarded to Judy Construction.” The project, he said, is scheduled for completion in 2029.

“We are excited about it,” Charles said. “This crucial investment marks the final phase of this project.” Charles said the project provides critical improvements to the city’s infrastructure to protect public health and support future growth. He explained that funding for the project resulted from a strong partnership among multiple sources, including $18 million from the CSO (Combined Sewer Overflow) surcharge, $39 million in loans through the KIA (Kentucky Infrastructure Authority), and an additional $5 million in forgivable KIA funding. The city also secured $4 million through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and the remaining balance will be financed through a bond issue, Charles said.

“Together, these investments truly demonstrate the city’s commitment to modernizing our essential utilities, meeting our regulatory commitments, and ensuring reliable service to residents for decades to come,” Charles said.

Congressman Rogers addressed those gathered and began by saying that $142 million in project funding had been approved for Eastern Kentucky. “I know that you have heavy expenditures,” Rogers said. “This project is expensive, but it is necessary. We are celebrating more than a wastewater treatment plant today,” Rogers said. “We are celebrating regional economic development. We are all in this together.”

“This project is a great example of how you successfully plan your work and work your plan,” Congressman Rogers said.

Rogers said the new wastewater treatment plant is an important upgrade that will support the growth being seen across Boyd County. “And I am happy to be a small part of that movement. As you plan your work this year, I want you to keep me updated on how I can help get more projects like this across the finish line. This is a vital community with a rich history and a dedication to becoming a better place. I appreciate the effort you have put into this project and many others.”

Senior Advisor Rocky Adkins addressed those gathered and expressed his excitement about being present at such an important event for the City of Ashland and the entire region. Adkins gave credit to both current and previous mayors and city commissioners for working diligently to bring the project from inception to realization. He congratulated everyone who worked hard and “checked every box” to move the project forward.

“This project would not be a reality without folks working together,” Adkins said. “From the city and county levels to the state and federal levels, this project would not have taken place without collaboration. So, this morning, I am honored to be here on behalf of Governor Beshear.” Adkins said the Commonwealth of Kentucky was honored to be part of the project.

Adkins said he had learned that the wastewater treatment plant is the largest project to date in the City of Ashland. “This project is almost $105 million,” Adkins said. “We’re here today to celebrate this tremendous project and achievement for this community.”

“But this project is about future growth,” Adkins said. “This project is about being able to answer and check the box when an industry is looking to come to this community or expand here.” The new project, he said, allows the city to check another important infrastructure box needed to support businesses. It provides the ability, at both the state and federal levels, to negotiate economic development opportunities. And it allows the city to tell businesses that they will be able to grow and thrive in the City of Ashland.