A look back at transportation funding initiatives

While Kentucky’s executive branch budget often receives the most attention, it is only one part of a larger picture that ensures state government meets the needs of its citizens. Several other spending plans play a critical role in delivering essential services, strengthening communities, and preparing the Commonwealth for the future. Among these are transportation measures that provide funding for the state’s Transportation Cabinet agencies and programs, construction, maintenance, and a separate budget that provides financial assistance for local governments. Ultimately, the different measures work together to create an intentional, well-planned path to improve safety, connectivity, and opportunity. These investments help support economic growth, improve safety, and ensure communities across the state have the resources needed to address their unique transportation challenges. Through strategic planning and targeted funding, lawmakers are working to make sure Kentucky’s infrastructure keeps pace with the needs of families, businesses, and communities.

HB 502 represents a historic investment in Kentucky’s transportation infrastructure, providing a $4.2 billion road plan that includes hundreds of projects in communities across the Commonwealth. The measure takes a proactive and strategic approach to addressing the challenges facing Kentucky’s transportation system by ensuring every available dollar is invested where it can deliver the greatest benefit. The plan prioritizes safety, economic growth, and long-term infrastructure needs, including hundreds of millions for pavement repairs on interstates and state highways and bridge improvements. It also continues Kentucky’s commitment to transformative projects such as the Mountain Parkway expansion, I-69 improvements, and the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor.

A key component of HB 502 is its continued reliance on the SHIFT (Strategic Highway Investment Formula for Tomorrow) process, which provides a data-driven approach to determining transportation priorities. SHIFT helps ensure funding decisions are based on measurable needs and community impact rather than politics or geography. The formula applies to transportation funding not already dedicated through other sources, including maintenance projects, local government needs, and projects supported by federal funding. Through SHIFT, local and state transportation leaders identify potential projects that are then evaluated based on factors such as safety, congestion reduction, economic development, cost effectiveness, asset management, and resiliency. For local road planning, the process also considers non-motorized transportation options, including bicycle and pedestrian mobility.

Because transportation needs span decades - not just budget cycles - Kentucky’s road plan is designed as a six-year investment strategy. This approach allows lawmakers and transportation officials to prioritize projects, coordinate resources, and address the Commonwealth’s most critical infrastructure needs in a responsible and forward-looking way. As part of that effort, the House approved HJR 75, which establishes the final four years of the next six-year road plan.

Lawmakers also approved HB 501, the operating budget for programs and services provided by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. The measure continues support for local communities through the Local Assistance Road Program (LARP), providing cities and counties with additional resources to address local road needs. In the first fiscal year, HB 501 provides an unprecedented $90.2 million for LARP over two years - $70.2 million in the first year, and an additional $20 million in fiscal year 2028.

This represents a significant increase in support for local roads across Kentucky – far exceeding the previous two years combined (LARP funding totaled $23.8 million in Fiscal Year 2026 and $19.9 million in Fiscal Year 2025). That additional funding will allow more communities to repair and resurface roads before deterioration becomes more costly and difficult to address. A companion measure, HJR 76, outlines how the funding will be distributed.

Historically, limited LARP funding meant projects were generally restricted to roads rated a 10, with only occasional funding available for roads rated a 9. Under HJR 76, funding will expand to include roads rated 8, 9, and 10, which in turn allows local governments to address more aging infrastructure and improve road conditions before they reach a critical state. Together, these investments reflect a commitment to safer roads, stronger communities, and a transportation system built to support Kentucky’s future.

Russell County LARP Funding:

• $17,000 for the resurfacing of C Voils Drive
• $25,000 to address the condition of Lee Road
• $26,000 for the resurfacing of Ramsey Creek Road
• $36,000 for the resurfacing of Bates Road
• $48,000 for the resurfacing of Lakeway Hills
• $55,000 for the resurfacing od Sugar 2 Road
• $58,000 for the resurfacing of Ramsey Creek Road
• $64,000 for the resurfacing of East West Wilson Road
• $60,000 for the resurfacing of Pumpkin Creek Road
• $76,000 for the resurfacing od Armilous Road
• $96,000 for the resurfacing of Beech Ridge Road
• $328,000 for the resurfacing od Decatur Road
• $29,000 to address the condition of Wilson Street
• $30,000 to address the condition of Jewel Street
• $36,000 for the resurfacing of Half Acre Road
• $48,000 for the resurfacing of West Sulphur Creek Road
• $52,000 for the resurfacing of S Todd Road
• $66,000 for the resurfacing of Half Acre Road
• $1,800 for the resurfacing of Stephens Court

In addition to LARP, HB 501 also includes $25 million in both years for the County and City Bridge Improvement Program.

As always, I can be reached anytime through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181. You can also contact me via email at Josh.Branscum@kylegislature.gov and keep track through the Kentucky legislature’s website at legislature.ky.gov.

Mayor Hoots shares details from tonight's meeting...

Curtis Peterson, 39, of Russell Springs, KY was operating a 2002 Chevy pickup truck on Hwy 910 in the Fairview community on Monday morning. The driver dropped off the shoulder of the road and overcorrected, causing the truck to go into a skid striking a culvert and a tree.

A passenger, Rosettal Galbreath, 40, of Jamestown, KY and the driver (Mr. Peterson) were transported to Russell County Hospital for treatment of their injuries. The driver was cited for No Insurance and given a court date to appear in court.

The accident is being investigated by Deputy Mike Sinclair of the Russell County Sheriff’s Office. Assisting at the scene were Russell County EMS and the Eli Fire Department.

There will be a Special Called Adair County School Board Meeting on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 5:00 PM at the Adair County Board of Education, 1204 Greensburg Street, Columbia, KY.

AGENDA

From Chief Burton

A Boil Water Advisory is in effect for customers on Hwy 551 from intersection of North 55 to Plum Point bridge, Holmes Bend and all side roads, Keltner Rd, West Egypt Rd all side roads, Bull Run Rd, and Pelly Lane all side roads. The advisory has been issued due to a main line break.

Following such an event, the potential exists for bacteriological contamination of the water supply therefore this Boil Water Advisory has been issued as a precautionary measure. Until further notice, boil all water used for drinking and cooking, bringing the water to a rolling boil for three minutes before using.

This advisory will remain in effect until the situation has been corrected and test results have shown the water to be of an acceptable quality. For more information concerning the Boil Water Advisory, contact Bradley Miller at Columbia Adair Utilities District, 270-384-2181.

The 127 Yard Sale (The World's Longest Yard Sale) takes place Thursday, August 6 through Sunday, August 9, 2026. This massive 4-day, 690-mile treasure hunt runs along U.S. Route 127 through six states: Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama. This marks the 40th consecutive year of the event.

Hours: Daylight hours typically, with major vendor stops open roughly 8:00 AM to dark.

Route Length: 690 miles from Addison, Michigan to Gadsden, Alabama.

States Covered: Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama.

Local Impact & DetailsIn Kentucky: The route passes directly through local communities including Russell, Casey, and Clinton counties, bringing heavy visitor traffic to local shops, food spots, and lodging.

Official Hub: You can view interactive maps, print route guides, or check vendor info on the 127 Yard Sale site, www.127yardsale.com.

The Columbia City Council will meet on Monday, August 3, 2026 at 5:00pmCT at City Hall for a Regular Called Meeting. It is open to the public.

AGENDA

CALL TO ORDER 

ROLL CALL

OPENING PRAYER

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 

1^ST ITEM:  MOTION TO APPROVE MINUTES OF JULY 06, 2026 REGULAR CALLED MEETING. 

2^ND ITEM:  MOTION TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION PER KRS 61.810(1) (g). 

DISCUSSIONS BETWEEN A PUBLIC AGENCY AND A REPRESENTATIVE OF A BUSINESS ENTITY, AND DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A SPECIFIC PROPOSAL IF OPEN DISCUSSION WOULD JEOPARDIZE THE SITING, RETENTION, & UPGRADING OF THE BUSINESS.

3^RD ITEM:  MOTION TO RESUME REGULAR SESSION.

4^TH ITEM:  OPENING AND POSSIBLE AWARDING OF BIDS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF GAS DEPARTMENT BUILDING.

5^TH ITEM:  OPENING AND POSSIBLE AWARDING OF BIDS FOR ONLINE AUCTION COMPANY.

6^TH ITEM:  APPROVAL TO SURPLUS POLICE PHONE EQUIPMENT. 

7^TH ITEM:  AUTHORIZATION TO ADVERTISE FOR BIDS FOR TRABUE HOUSE PROJECT PHASE 1.    

8^TH ITEM:  REQUEST FROM ADAIR COUNTY TOURISM FOR FUNDING.

MAYOR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
 

COUNCIL COMMENTS
 

CITIZENS COMMENTS: LIMIT 3 MINUTES PER CITIZEN OR ORGANIZATION
 

ADJOURN 

The City of Columbia was incredibly pleased to have had an incredible 2026 Back to School Bash. We were able to host over 200 kids, and almost 400 people at our event, and were only able to do so thanks to our incredible sponsors. A special thank you goes out to the Columbia Street Department and Columbia Parks and Recreation Department for setting up the event and working traffic.

Vendors served our community incredibly well by giving away massive amounts of school supplies, food, drinks, candy, and various other things.

Last but certainly not least, we would like to thank Jake Hill, Mark Harris, and Rodney Thompson along with Jimmy McKnight and assistant Billy Pickett, Bob Massey, James Curry, and Lance Burton for an incredible show!

The Air Methods of Kentucky base in Russell County will officially celebrate its opening with a special event on Thursday, Aug. 6 at Russell County Airport in Jamestown. The ceremony will feature comments from Air Methods leaders, local leaders, and Kentucky 15 crew members. Attendees will also have an opportunity to tour the base’s EC130 air ambulance (subject to service availability).

The EC130 is fully equipped with the advanced medical equipment and medications required to function as a flying ICU. The industry-leading flight nurses and paramedics carry blood on board, allowing them to administer this lifesaving resource at a trauma scene or in flight.

Since opening in June, Kentucky 15 has already transported 45 patients across the state. The new based joined Air Methods of Kentucky bases in Bedford, Corydon, Elizabethtown, Glasgow, Mt. Sterling, and Somerset.

Air Methods is dedicated to serving communities across Kentucky and beyond. The company is in-network with most health insurance providers, and the Air Methods patient advocacy program works with all patients, regardless of insurance, to help ensure the affordability of air medical services.

WHAT:
Join the Kentucky 15 crew as they celebrate Air Methods of Kentucky expanding to Russell County. Hear from Air Methods crew and other local leaders (schedule subject to availability) and meet the crews that provide 24/7 critical care at a moment’s notice. Enjoy a light lunch and refreshments and get a first-hand look at the program’s EC130 helicopter (subject to a call into service).

WHEN:
Thursday, Aug. 6
11:30 a.m. to 1:30pmCT

WHERE:         
Kentucky 15 Base

Russell County Airport

630 C Smith Road

Jamestown, KY 42642

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 30, 2026) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced further investment in the state’s site and building development efforts as more than $5.2 million was approved to support future investment and job creation in Adair, Ballard, Clinton, Floyd, Madison, Magoffin, Monroe and Montgomery counties through the Kentucky Product Development Initiative (KPDI).

“Team Kentucky is continuing to invest in site and building development to lay the groundwork for continued economic momentum and future job opportunities,” said Gov. Beshear. “Congratulations to these eight communities. I am excited to see how you will use these investments to create a brighter future for our people.”

The Adair County Fiscal Court, on behalf of the Columbia-Adair County Economic Development Authority, is planning to construct a 40,000-square-foot speculative building within its Green River Commerce Park. The project was approved for nearly $1.7 million in state support.

The Ballard County Fiscal Court, in partnership with the city of Wickliffe, will be performing due diligence on a 30-acre site along the Mississippi River. The project was approved this morning for $90,000 in state funding to support the efforts.

Clinton County Industrial Development Authority plans to conduct due diligence for a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment and geotechnical study. The studies are the preliminary steps to evaluate environmental conditions, subsurface stability and overall site suitability, ensuring informed decision-making prior to any acquisition and subsequent development efforts that align with its mission to promote investment, job creation and sustainable growth in the region. The project was approved for $25,812 in state support.

The Floyd County Fiscal Court is considering purchasing the Allen Rail Site, near Allen, Kentucky. The property is a total of 40 acres, and approximately 30 acres are developable. The project was approved for $1.3 million in state funding to support the acquisition efforts.

The Richmond Industrial Development Corp. is planning to construct an entryway to the property from Duncannon Lane that is sufficient for truck traffic. Duncannon Lane is a two-way divided roadway, and the bulk of this project will focus on turning lanes in both directions but with the hope of using an existing crossover. The project was approved this morning for $398,430 in state support.

The Magoffin County Fiscal Court is planning to acquire land to expand the present Gifford Industrial Park. In 2023, Magoffin County Fiscal Court opened the park adjacent to the Mountain Parkway outside of Salyersville. Within two years, all three lots in the park were under purchase agreement. The county is proposing to purchase and develop a 98.4-acre parcel across the Mountain Parkway from the current park, to double the size of the Gifford Industrial Park and attract additional industry employment. The project was approved for $513,000 in state funding to support the development.

The Monroe County Industrial Development Authority (MC-IDA) recently purchased property north of Tompkinsville along Kentucky Highway 163, Edmonton Road. Its transition from long-term agricultural use to industrial readiness represents a significant opportunity for Monroe County to have a developable site available and attract new private-sector investment. The property, when completed, will offer a large-scale manufacturing site of 20 acres with a single building footprint, along with other small-scale sites for start-ups or local industry needing to expand. The project was approved this morning for $255,000 in state funding.

The Montgomery County Fiscal Court, on behalf of the Mt. Sterling-Montgomery County Industrial Authority, is planning to construct roads for the Walters Industrial Park. The project was approved for $960,00 in state support.

Including projects approved last month that use remaining funds, the two rounds of the previous iteration of the initiative have seen 157 approved projects statewide for over $153 million in funding. Including local contributions, these projects have generated nearly $638 million in investments in Kentucky’s sites and buildings portfolio.

To date, 51 companies have located on pilot PDI and KPDI funded sites, totaling over $5.7 billion in capital investment and creating over 7,400 new jobs.

The initiative is a collaboration between the Cabinet for Economic Development and the Kentucky Association for Economic Development (KAED). It provides state support for potential upgrades to sites and buildings across the commonwealth to ensure Kentucky remains a prime location for growing companies across all industry sectors.

Terri Bradshaw, president and CEO of KAED, showed support for the program: “By helping these communities improve and strengthen their industrial sites and buildings, this program allows local leaders to compete for projects that create jobs, attract private investment, and generate long-term opportunity. We are excited to see so many communities receive support through KPDI and look forward to the impact these projects will have for years to come.”

To date, Gov. Beshear and the Kentucky General Assembly have allocated up to $220 million in funding for the initiative.

Site and building development projects are first evaluated by an independent consultant based upon all facets a prospective company would consider, from workforce availability, access to all infrastructure and detailed information on costs associated with development.

Learn more about KPDI at kpdi.ky.gov.

Investment in site development throughout Kentucky furthers what has been the best six-year period for economic growth in state history.

Since the beginning of his administration, Gov. Beshear has announced more than 1,300 private-sector new-location and expansion projects totaling over $50 billion in announced investments, creating more than 70,000 jobs. This is the highest investment figure secured during the tenure of any governor in the commonwealth’s history and $29 billion more than the next highest total.

Gov. Beshear has announced some of the largest economic development projects in state history, which have solidified Kentucky as the battery capital of the United States: AESC’s $2 billion, 2,000-job gigafactory project in Warren County; Ford Motor Co.’s $2 billion, 2,200-job commitment in Louisville, as well as its $2 billion, 2,100-job project at the Kentucky 1 plant in Hardin County; Shelbyville Battery Manufacturing’s $712 million investment, creating 1,572 jobs in Shelby County; and Toyota’s $1.3 billion investment in Scott County, among others.

The Governor announced Kentucky once again set an all-time record for products shipped globally, with $51.6 billion in exports in 2025, representing a 7.65% increase over 2024.

Unemployment rates fell in all 120 counties between December 2024 and December 2025.

The Governor’s administration also secured the largest General Fund budget surplus and Rainy Day Fund. In 2023, Kentucky recorded over 2 million jobs filled for the first time ever and has stayed above that number ever since.

In addition, Kentucky has secured rating increases from major credit rating agencies Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s Investors Service.

Earlier this year, Site Selection magazine ranked Kentucky in the top five nationally and second in the South Central region for economic development projects per capita in its 2025 Governor’s Cup rankings. In June, Area Development magazine awarded the commonwealth a Silver Shovel designation in its 2025 Shovel Awards, which highlight states for attracting high-value investment projects that will create a significant number of new jobs in their communities. 

Gov. Beshear also announced a new initiative, called New Kentucky Home, to increase economic investment, attain and attract talent, and increase tourism across the state.

Information on Kentucky’s economic development efforts and programs is available at NewKentuckyHome.ky.gov. Fans of the Cabinet for Economic Development can also join the discussion at facebook.com/CEDkygov, on Twitter @CEDkygov, Instagram @CEDkygov and LinkedIn.

On Thursday, July 30, 2026 at approximately 6:20amCT, deputies with the Adair County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 4000 block of Highway 55 South in reference to a two-vehicle collision.

The preliminary investigation determined that Dustin McGuffin, who was traveling southbound on Highway 55 South, crossed the centerline into the northbound lane of travel. Shawntae Giftee of Indiana was traveling northbound toward Columbia when she observed McGuffin’s vehicle in her lane. Ms. Giftee sounded her horn multiple times, reduced her speed, and attempted to move into the southbound lane in an effort to avoid a collision. Mr. McGuffin then overcorrected, and the vehicles collided.

Adair EMS and the Adair County Fire Department responded promptly to the scene, providing medical care to those involved and assisting with traffic control and scene safety.

The collision was investigated by Adair County Deputy Emily Wall with assistance from Sergeant Josh Durbin.

The Adair County Sheriff’s Office reminds motorists to remain attentive while operating a motor vehicle, avoid distractions, and stay within their designated lane of travel. A momentary lapse in attention can lead to serious or life-threatening consequences.

The Adair County Sheriff’s Office extends its appreciation to Adair County EMS, the Adair County Fire Department, and all first responders for their professionalism and assistance during this incident.

The following is a message from R.C. School Supt. Michael Ford that was sent to parents/guardians of RCMS students as well as Russell County School System staff members concerning the hiring of a new Russell County Middle School principal. 

I am pleased to share that Mrs. Sarah Aaron has been selected as the new principal of Russell County Middle School.

Mrs. Aaron currently serves as assistant principal at Russell County Middle School, a position she has held since July 2024. Before becoming assistant principal, she taught mathematics at RCMS for four years. She began her career as a mathematics teacher for Clinton County Schools.

Her background includes experience in instructional leadership, school improvement planning, student services, teacher mentoring, assessment, special education processes, and building strong relationships with students, staff, families, and other stakeholders. Mrs. Aaron has expressed her commitment to building upon the progress RCMS has made in academics, school culture, and climate while ensuring that every decision places students first.

I would like to thank the Russell County Middle School Site-Based Decision Making Council for its dedication and hard work throughout this process and its commitment to a thorough and thoughtful selection process.

As we move forward, I am confident Mrs. Aaron will continue supporting our students, staff, and families while building upon the positive momentum and strong traditions of Russell County Middle School.

A Russell County Grand Jury met on Tuesday and returned indictments against 18 individuals:
 

• Christopher M. Austin of Russell Springs – Murder, DUI, possession of controlled substance 1^st degree and reckless driving.

• Andrew Hosack of Eddyville – Four counts of 3rd degree assault on police officers, public intoxication, disorderly conduct, terroristic threatening, and being a persistent felony offender. The charges stem from a May 30th arrest by the Russell Springs Police Department.

• Jody Bryant and Tracy Bryant, of Russell Springs – Theft by deception involving $1,000 or more and theft by failure to make required disposition of property.

• William J. Galbreath of Russell Springs – Intimidating a participant in the legal process, tampering with a witness, menacing, and being a persistent felony offender.

• Lee Chumbley of Columbia – First-degree bail jumping.

• Danny Prater of Frenchburg – Receiving stolen property and being a persistent felony offender.

• Patricia Norris of Jamestown – Possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Crishonda Regine Squire of Campbellsville – 1st degree criminal mischief and 1st degree wanton endangerment.

• Brian Long of Russell Springs – Possession of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance not in its original container, and possession of a legend drug.

• David B. Carroll of Nancy – Possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana.

• Christopher King of Russell Springs – Two counts of 1st degree wanton endangerment, DUI, possession of a controlled substance, possession of an open alcohol container in vehicle, reckless driving, no registration receipt, and failure to produce proof of insurance. The charges stem from an injury collision on East Highway 619 on June 27th.

• Tara Vines of Russell Springs – Possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Jeremiah Grider of Russell Springs – Possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana.

• Larry Gillock of Russell Springs – Possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, DUI, and reckless driving.

• Judy Walters of Russell Springs – Possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, tampering with physical evidence, no registration receipt, no insurance, and being a persistent felony offender.

• William Chumbley of Russell Springs – Possession of a controlled substance, operating on a suspended license, no insurance, and no registration receipt.

• Heidi Flanagan of Russell Springs – Possession of a controlled substance, bribery of a public servant, failure to produce operator’s license, illegible license plate, no registration plates, and no insurance.

WAVE NEWS reminds listeners that an indictment doesn't express guilt or innocense, only that further court action is necessary.  

Special Called Board Meeting
July 30, 2026 05:00 PM
Adair County Board of Education 1204 Greensburg Street Columbia, KY 42728
 

1. Call to Order

2. Approval of Referral to the Attorney General

3. Adjournment

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 28, 2026) – Today, Team Kentucky announced that following last year’s historic flooding at Green River Lake State Park campground, a phased reopening plan will welcome guests back while continuing long-term recovery efforts. 

“We know how special this campground is to this community and its visitors,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “We’ve worked hard to get it up and running safely after last year’s historic flooding and are excited for it to welcome guests again soon.”  

The campground suffered major infrastructure damage due to the historic rainfall and flooding event that occurred in 2025, leaving much of the park under?water for weeks. A thorough assessment found that the entire electrical system needs to be replaced.  

The campground is scheduled to reopen on Friday, July 31, to primitive and self-contained camping (RVs and campers capable of operating without utility hookups). Approximately 73 campsites will be available and may be booked through ReserveAmerica. Generators will be permitted for self-contained camping units. These sites will remain open through Oct. 31, when the campground will close for the season.  

Restoration and infrastructure projects are scheduled to begin on Nov. 1, 2026. Plans are currently for the campground to reopen in spring 2027.  

Once restoration and renovations are complete, the campground will offer upgraded electrical service at every site, as well as campsite improvements, renovated bathhouses, and better drainage throughout the campground, all aimed at improving the guest experience.  

“We appreciate Gov. Beshear’s leadership and assistance in helping us reopen Green River Lake State Park campground so that folks may enjoy the remainder of the camping season,” said Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet Secretary Lindy Casebier. “We are committed to providing a top-notch New Kentucky Home experience at Kentucky State Parks, and these efforts will benefit community members and visitors alike, along with the economic impact for local tourism.” 

“The Kentucky State Parks team’s goal is to safely restore camping opportunities, set clear expectations for visitors and position the campground for continued improvements following the 2026 camping season,” said Kentucky State Parks Interim Commissioner Mark Kellen. “Rather than keeping the campground closed for the remainder of the season, we believe reopening a portion of the campground is the best path forward for our guests, the local community and the park.” 

Available amenities will include one bathhouse for guest use, campground entrance booth open for check-in and guest assistance, firewood and ice available for sale, miniature golf and fire rings. The campground store will remain closed during this phase.? 

Additionally, the park plans to host its popular Halloween in the Park weekends, providing another opportunity to welcome campers back before the campground closes for the season. Scheduled weekends include Oct. 9–11 and Oct. 16–18. 

Through funding from?House Joint Resolution 76,?the?Green River bathhouse received a $126,642 renovation.?Kentucky State Parks were?allocated?$40 million for campground upgrades, split between the east and west regions. Green River was?allocated?$3.6 million?for campground renovations, but renovation projects were halted due to the flooding. That funding will still be used for upgrades, and electrical updates will be funded through HB6 Utility Infrastructure funding. 

This project demonstrates Team Kentucky’s strong commitment to improving facilities across Kentucky State Parks campgrounds, providing visitors with modern amenities to fit today’s needs.  

For safety purposes, the public is urged to stay off park campground property during the closure and refrain from unauthorized use until the facility is officially open. 

Updates will be provided through the Kentucky State Parks website and official communication channels. 

Kentucky is home to 44 state parks, including 17 resort parks and 13 golf courses. For more information about Kentucky State Parks, visit parks.ky.gov. 

Just after midnight Wednesday, JVFD members were dispatched to the report of a fire on Denmark Ln and Hwy 379.

First arriving units found a modular home fully engulfed in flames. The owner had been awakened by his neighbor and was not injured. The home was a total loss.

Engines 3, and 5, Tankers 2, 4, and 62 responded. JVFD had 12 personnel O/S  for 2½ hours. They were assisted by South KY RECC and the American Red Cross.

At approximately 9:30 PM on Tuesday, Search and Rescue was notified of two overdue kayakers. Several team members responded to the area and located the individuals on land after their kayaks had overturned. Two SAR members were deployed separately to retrieve the kayaks so the pair could be safely transported back to their cabin.

PSA: When you call for help, please stay put. Remaining in one location is critical for a fast and safe response. Moving after calling 911 or SAR can delay rescue efforts, increase risk, and make it significantly harder for teams to locate you—especially at night or in low?visibility conditions. Staying where you are allows responders to reach you quickly and get you home safely.

The Columbia Police Department encourages the public to contact the Adair County 911 Dispatch Center by dialing 911 for all emergencies requiring an immediate police response.

For non-emergency police assistance, please contact the Adair County 911 Dispatch Center at (270) 384-6464.

The Columbia Police Department’s main office may be reached at (270) 384-4119. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Columbia Police Department also encourages the public to use the department’s anonymous Crime Tip Line, “Cally’s Line,” to report suspicious activity. Call or text (270) 378-2259 to submit anonymous tips. You may also send photographs and videos that could assist law enforcement with investigations.

“If you see something, say something.” Reporting suspicious activity promptly helps create an official date and time record of the incident and allows law enforcement to respond quickly and effectively when appropriate. Working together, we can help keep our community safe.

Special Called Meeting

We will have a planned power outage Wednesday, July 29th for members living in the Rush Branch Road/Omega Park Road areas of Pulaski County. Crews will be working to replace equipment that was damaged by a semi-truck.

?? Outage Begins: 9:00 a.m. ET Wednesday July 29th
?? Estimated Duration: Approximately 3 hours
???? Members Affected: 521

The outage will begin at approximately 9:00 a.m. ET Wednesday morning, July 29th.

Impacted members should have received an automated phone call in recent days. If you are affected and did not receive a call, please contact our office so we can verify your account contact information. 800-264-5112

We appreciate your patience as crews make necessary repairs and improvements to our system.#WeAreSKRECC