Madon, Bowling announce funding for Harlan County water infrastructure

Published 9:05 am Monday, April 28, 2025

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Sen. Scott Madon, R-Pineville, and Rep. Adam Bowling, R-Middlesboro, announced more than $4.5 million in funding for critical water infrastructure projects in Harlan County. The funds were allocated through House Joint Resolution (HJR) 30, which was passed during the 2025 Regular Session of the Kentucky General Assembly.

The investment includes $3,022,100 for the Black Mountain Utility District to improve and expand its water distribution system. The project will focus on replacing deteriorating water lines, reducing water loss, and extending service to households and communities currently lacking reliable access.

Additionally, $1.5 million has been awarded to the City of Evarts for the development of a new raw water source. This effort is designed to increase water supply capacity, reduce dependency on aging infrastructure, and strengthen long-term reliability for residents and businesses.

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“Our communities deserve dependable, modern infrastructure,” said Madon. “These funds are a much-needed investment in our region’s future and a testament to what we can accomplish when we work together to prioritize eastern Kentucky.”

“I applaud local leaders, the City of Evarts, and BMUD for being proactive in identifying and applying for state funding to address critical needs within their communities.,” Bowling said. “While several other local systems had applied as well, these two applications were amongst the highest scoring projects in the state, as scored by the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority.  This was round one of this funding program, and I strongly encourage all systems to re-apply as round two opens in the coming weeks. Reliable water systems are essential to every part of life, from public safety to economic development. These projects are a smart use of resources, and I’m glad we were able to help secure funding to move them forward.”

Both projects were identified as local priorities and included in the legislature’s broader strategy to strengthen critical infrastructure in rural communities.

To learn more about HJR 30 and the 2025 Kentucky General Assembly, visit www.legislature.ky.gov.