Senator Robin Webb and Representative Patrick Flannery announced nearly $27.8 million in funding for projects in Lewis County during a visit to the county, highlighting major investments in water infrastructure, parks, highways, and local roads.
The lawmakers said the funding was approved during the 2026 Regular Session of the Kentucky General Assembly and represents a significant investment in the county’s future.
Among the largest projects included in the funding package is $18 million for a new regional water treatment plant. Officials said the project is designed to improve water quality and long-term reliability for residents, businesses, and future development throughout the region.
“Lewis County is built on strong communities and hard-working families, and these investments reflect that,” Webb said. “Whether it’s ensuring reliable water infrastructure, improving our parks, or making roads safer, this funding will make a real difference in everyday life. It’s about keeping our communities strong and making sure folks have what they need close to home.”
Flannery said securing the funding was a major accomplishment for Lewis County and emphasized the importance of directing state resources toward local infrastructure and quality-of-life projects.
“Bringing $27.8 million in taxpayer investments back to Lewis County is a major win for our community,” Flannery said. “The legislature remains committed to using taxpayer dollars wisely — investing in Kentuckians and local communities rather than wasting money or playing politics. Lewis County is a great place to live and raise a family, and these projects will help strengthen it even more for years to come.”
In addition to the water project, $1 million was secured for upgrades at Black Oak Recreation Park. The project will also include matching funds provided by Sam and Julee Howard.
Sam and Julee Howard said they were pleased to support the effort and invest in the future of Lewis County.
“Julee and I have been fortunate to have been raised in Lewis County, and our children and grandchildren are being raised here as well,” Sam Howard said. “For industry, and those who can help our county, to consider locating here, they need to see our county helping ourselves first.”
Flannery said the park improvements represent an investment in community health and recreation opportunities for families across the county.
“Clean, safe water is one of the most basic needs of any community, and this major investment in Lewis County is a strong step forward,” Flannery said. “It will help improve water quality, protect public health, and ensure families and businesses have a reliable system they can depend on for years to come.”
“I’m also incredibly pleased that we were able to get $1 million towards our park upgrades,” he added. “After all, investments in parks are investments in the health, happiness, and connection of our communities.”
Transportation and infrastructure projects account for more than $8.5 million of the total funding package.
The state road plan includes approximately $7.48 million for the reconstruction of KY 57 from the AA Highway to the Fleming County line. Another $1,037,859 was approved to improve safety and address deficiencies on the KY 1068 bridge over Laurel Fork.
According to the lawmakers, the bridge had previously been identified as deficient during inspections and was prioritized for repair.
Lewis County will also receive $243,000 through the Local Assistance Road Program (LARP) for improvements to local roads. The program was created by lawmakers to prioritize state assistance for local road projects using factors such as safety, traffic volume and road condition.
“As we work to improve the roads across our Commonwealth, we remain focused on prioritizing Kentucky’s most critical transportation needs and ensuring every dollar is spent responsibly,” Flannery said. “At the end of the day, these projects are about making a real difference for the people who live, work, and travel throughout our region and across Kentucky.”
Judge Executive George Sparks thanked Webb and Flannery for their efforts in securing the funding and said the projects will have a long-lasting impact on the county.
“We appreciate Senator Webb and Representative Flannery continuing to work for Lewis County and helping secure funding for these important projects,” Sparks said. “These investments will improve infrastructure, public safety, and quality of life for our citizens, and they will help position Lewis County for future growth and opportunity.”
Sparks said the projects represent the type of improvements local officials have worked toward for years.
“From water infrastructure and road improvements to investments in recreation and community development, these are projects that will benefit Lewis County families for many years to come,” Sparks said. “We’re grateful for the partnership and support shown for our county in Frankfort.”
Flannery also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to represent Lewis County in Frankfort.
“It is an honor to serve all of the 96th District as State Representative,” Flannery said. “I love the great people of Lewis County, and I’m proud to have helped deliver for the district along with my colleague Senator Robin Webb.”
Lawmakers adjourned the 2026 Regular Session on April 15 and are scheduled to reconvene for the 2027 Regular Session on January 5.
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