JACKSON, Ky. -- U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) joined state and local leaders today in Breathitt County for a ground breaking ceremony to extend water lines to the Jackson Weather Service. The nearly $300,000 project will provide running water to the Jackson Weather Service for the first time since it was established nearly 40 years ago.

"Over the last four decades, the Jackson Weather Service has protected our people from flash flooding, tornadoes and other severe weather events, and the employees deserve to have this basic resource, rather than relying on gallons of water for basic needs," said Rogers, who supported the project. "This is one of countless projects supported by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), and that's why I continue to fight to protect the ARC from proposed elimination in the President's budget."

The ARC awarded $215,000 for the project and the Jackson Weather Service invested $75,000, alongside the Breathitt County Fiscal Court.

Joining Congressman Rogers to share remarks were Sandy Dunahoo, Commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Local Government; State Rep. Toby Herald; Shawn Harley, Meteorologist-in-charge; J.L. Smith, Breathitt County Judge Executive; and Rose Wolfe, Mayor of Jackson.

The water extension project is expected to be finished by the end of the year.

Ground-breaking ceremony for Jackson Weather Service water lines

Congressman Rogers speaks to attendees at the ground-breaking ceremony