FACTS FOR OUR COMMUNITY

Why This Project Started

This project began with the Kentucky Product Development Initiative (KPDI), a 2022 state program providing $100 million to support economic growth across Kentucky. Each county can access up to $2 million per project, with a 1:1 match, encouraging regional partnerships. Franklin and Anderson Counties teamed up to secure a $4 million grant, forming the Franklin Anderson Regional Industrial Development Authority to oversee development.

Why Regional?

Thousands of Anderson County residents commute to Franklin County for work, and vice versa. This partnership leverages our shared location—near I-64, an hour from Louisville, and part of the Lexington area—to build a stronger future together.

What This Project is

Size and Location

The project covers 230 acres under contract (not the 2,000 acres some have claimed), located primarily in Franklin County along the Anderson County border, near US 127—a four-lane highway ideal for business access.

Infrastructure

The site has existing road access and utility infrastructure and the ability to upgrade to support development.

Target Industries

We’re attracting advanced manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and ag-tech companies—industries already strong in our region—to create quality jobs.

Development Plan

Land will be pre-zoned and marketed, but significant building won’t start until employers are secured.

Clearing up Misinformation

Some rumors have caused confusion, so here’s the truth:

The Comprehensive Plan is a Separate Process

The 2,000-acre figure comes from the Comprehensive Plan, a long-term guide updated every five years to plan for future growth. It’s not a zoning action or our current project—it’s a vision for what could happen in 20 years if landowners agree. Our focus is only on the 230 acres under contract.

No Forced Land Sales

Property owners can choose to sell, but no one is forced. Eminent domain—where government can take land—is restricted in Kentucky and only applies to clear public needs (e.g., roads). Any rezoning requires landowner agreement and a public process through the Franklin County Planning Commission.

Benefits for Anderson and Franklin Counties

This project is about growth that benefits us all:

Jobs & Economy

With 230 acres, we aim to attract businesses that could create up to 1,000 jobs at an average wage of $50,000+/year. In Anderson County, this means local work opportunities, reducing commutes to Franklin County or beyond.

Tax Revenue

New jobs and businesses generate taxes (occupational, property, insurance premium) that fund schools, roads, water systems, and public services in Anderson County. Without this growth, new homes and subdivisions cost cities money to service, potentially leading to higher taxes.

Strategic Location

Anderson County’s proximity to highways and the Lexington area makes it a prime spot for economic expansion, benefiting residents with better infrastructure and opportunities.

Get Involved

We value your input! Join us at the Town Hall Meeting on March 12 at 5:30 p.m. at the KSU Research Farm (1525 Mills Lane) to learn more and share your thoughts. Elected officials from both counties will be there. Stay informed by: