Beech Tree News Network

 WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced today that the Rochester Dam Regional Water Commission (RDRWC) was awarded a $3 million grant by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s, Economic Development Administration (EDA). The funding will be used to help renovate the Rochester Dam, located in Western Kentucky.

Last year, Senator McConnell successfully secured language in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) supporting Kentucky’s vital water infrastructure and giving more control to Kentucky communities. The McConnell language in WRDA, which was signed into law, called for the transfer of ownership of several dams on the Green River from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to local entities. Rochester Dam, also known as Green River Dam 3, was transferred to the Rochester Dam Regional Water Commission. The transfer of the Rochester Dam to the community made it eligible to receive the federal grant funding awarded by the EDA today that will support the renovation of this vital water source for my constituents. 

 “Today’s announcement is great news for Western Kentucky,” said Senator McConnell who contacted the EDA on behalf of RDRWC. “This funding will allow the Commission to renovate and better maintain the Rochester Dam, which is over 175 years old. The Rochester Dam serves as an important water source for the region and for businesses along the Green River. It provides a vital water supply serving nearly 50,000 residents in Ohio, Butler and Muhlenberg Counties. Securing the language in the WRDA bill was pivotal to giving local control of the Rochester Dam and making the community eligible to receive this federal grant.”

 Ohio Judge-Executive David Johnston said, “Ohio County extends our sincere gratitude to Senator McConnell for his continued efforts to keep Rochester Dam a priority. The $3,000,000 grant will support the necessary repairs to secure our future water supply.”

  Butler County Judge Executive David Fields said, “The impact is tremendous for the citizens of Butler County and this region, not only for our water supply but also in protecting thousands of jobs. Thank you Senator McConnell!” 

 
 “Senator McConnell has been committed to protecting the water supply of our region throughout his term. His leadership and support combined with strong partnerships with our local leaders will ensure that the citizens in Butler, Muhlenberg, and Ohio Counties will have this vital water resource for future generations,” said John Dix, Secretary for the Rochester Dam Regional Water Commission. “The dam, constructed in the 1830’s, has served our region well for nearly two centuries. The repairs that this funding provides will make sure that it continues to serve as the water supply for nearly 50,000 people.”