WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) applauds a $3.9 million grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) for the McCreary County Heritage Foundation, Inc. to continue revitalization projects and infrastructure upgrades to boost the tourism economy in Stearns, Kentucky. 

This project will support revitalization of the county museum and local businesses while providing related infrastructure improvements, including drainage, walkways, paving, and other amenities to support increased tourism. This EDA grant will be matched with $600,000 in local funds.

“Seated at the state border, McCreary County is a gateway to southern Kentucky. We have been working diligently to revitalize and preserve the history of Stearns to boost the tourism economy, and this EDA grant will go a long way to renovate some of the buildings downtown,” said Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05). “I am thankful for investments like this from the EDA, as we work to create jobs and build on the resources we have in southern Kentucky.”

“The travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sector is a critical economic driver for many communities and the Economic Development Administration is pleased to support community-led development strategies,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “These upgrades will help attract visitors to this historic area and bolster a business district hit hard by the pandemic.”

“Kentucky’s tourism industry is essential to the overall success of our commonwealth, and this investment will help fuel economic growth in the community of Stearns and beyond,” said Governor Andy Beshear. “Visitors and Kentuckians alike will benefit from these upgrades while traveling to experience Stearns’ rich heritage and unique outdoor recreational opportunities.”

This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Lake Cumberland Area Development District (LCADD). EDA funds LCADD to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment and create jobs.