Today, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear announced a new Build-Ready site in Owen County, marking another step in the state's ongoing efforts to enhance site development and create jobs. The 49-acre site is located in the Owenton Industrial Park and is certified by the Cabinet for Economic Development as Build-Ready.
"The Build-Ready program has steadily grown over the last several years, and I’m excited to see yet another community benefit," said Gov. Beshear. He emphasized Kentucky's commitment to site development, which he believes will attract companies to the state, bringing quality jobs and opportunities. Gov. Beshear expressed gratitude towards local leadership in Owen County and state officials who facilitated the certification of this site.
The site is situated within Owenton's northwestern city limits along U.S. Highway 127, approximately 15 miles from Interstate Highway 71 and about 45 miles from Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. Utilities include a six-inch gas line, a 12-inch waterline, four- and eight-inch sewer lines, electric service by Kentucky Utilities, natural gas by the city of Owenton, and broadband telecommunications by AT&T.
Owen County Judge/Executive Todd Woodyard remarked on the project's significance: "The development of this new Build-Ready site is a game-changer for Owen County." He highlighted that it offers businesses a prepared location for establishing or expanding operations, promising new jobs and economic growth for the community.
Casey Ellis, former Owen County judge/executive and current member of the Owen County Industrial Development Corp., acknowledged those involved: "The Build-Ready site has been a top priority for the Owen County Industrial Development Corp. for many years."
Glen Ross of MSE of Kentucky Inc., involved in providing engineering services for the project, stated: "MSE of Kentucky Inc. is proud to have provided engineering services for Owen Industrial’s new Build-Ready Site."
A Build-Ready site includes completed preliminary work such as archaeological studies and infrastructure installation, allowing construction to begin immediately upon selection by a company.
Kentucky now hosts 26 available Build-Ready sites with others working toward certification. Previously certified sites have been chosen by companies across various counties for their projects.
Since taking office, Gov. Beshear has announced over $35 billion in private-sector investments creating more than 60,000 jobs—the highest investment figure during any governor's tenure in Kentucky history.
Gov. Beshear's administration has also seen significant economic achievements including securing large-scale projects like Ford Motor Co.'s BlueOval SK Battery Park and Toyota's investment in Scott County.
Additionally, Kentucky achieved its largest General Fund budget surplus and Rainy Day Fund while maintaining over two million filled jobs since 2023. The state received credit rating increases from major agencies Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings, and Moody’s Investors Service.
Site Selection magazine ranked Kentucky third nationally for economic development projects per capita in its Governor’s Cup rankings last March.
Gov. Beshear recently launched initiatives like Supply Kentucky aimed at job growth and New Kentucky Home focused on boosting economic investment and tourism statewide.