Kentucky River Area Development District
Jul 27, 2026
The Kentucky River Area Development District wrote and will administer the grant applications supporting major water and wastewater improvements in Knott and Wolfe counties
The Kentucky River Area Development District wrote the grant applications and will administer two major infrastructure projects awarded a combined $6.6 million in Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization funding announced June 24, 2026, by Gov. Andy Beshear and U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers.
The funding will support water and wastewater improvements in Knott and Wolfe counties that are intended to expand utility capacity and prepare communities for future housing, business growth and economic development.
The Knott County Water and Sewer District received $2.1 million to expand the Ball Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant. The project will increase the plant's treatment capacity from 100,000 gallons per day to 250,000 gallons per day, allowing the system to support new housing, public facilities and future economic development in Knott and Perry counties.
The expanded plant will serve several residential and community development projects, including Chestnut Ridge, Olive Branch, Hickory Hills, the relocated Robinson Elementary School and the Phoenix development. Together, these projects represent hundreds of new homes and recovery opportunities for families and communities affected by the 2022 Eastern Kentucky floods.
The City of Campton received $4.5 million to construct a new transmission line extending water service from the Cave Run Water Commission toward the Red River Gorge area. The project is expected to improve reliable drinking water access for more than 2,000 households and more than 25 businesses while supporting tourism, business growth and future development.
Local leaders highlighted the long-term importance of the investments. Knott County Judge/Executive Jeff Dobson said the wastewater expansion will provide a foundation for housing, recovery and economic development. Campton Mayor Kathi May and Wolfe County Judge/Executive Raymond Banks emphasized that dependable water service is essential to the health, quality of life and economic future of Wolfe County residents and businesses.
The projects are supported through partnerships among local water utilities, city and county governments, the Commonwealth of Kentucky and federal leaders. Kentucky received $29.5 million in AMLER funding for 2026, with additional project announcements expected. As administrator of both grants, KRADD will oversee implementation of the projects funded through the applications it prepared.