There is more bourbon and rye whiskey production coming to Kentucky. This time, it’s going to be in the Western Kentucky county of Henderson. Henderson Distilling Co. broke ground on their new $5 million project today with Governor Andy Beshear present.
Full Press Release – This article has been summarized and edited by Bourbon Lens and AI
Henderson Distilling Co. Breaks Ground
HENDERSON, Ky. (Sept. 30, 2024) – Gov. Andy Beshear, alongside local leaders and executives from Henderson Distilling Co., broke ground on a $5 million project aimed at revitalizing downtown Henderson. This new venture will create at least 12 full-time jobs and boost the local economy. The startup distillery, led by founders Andrew and Meredith Powell, will transform the former Henderson Municipal Power & Light campus into a state-of-the-art distillery and tourism destination.
Gov. Beshear emphasized the importance of the project, saying, “Every groundbreaking event celebrates an investment in Kentucky’s future, bringing job opportunities and economic growth to our communities.”
Revitalizing Downtown Henderson
The Henderson Distilling Co. project will restore two historic buildings and introduce a new facility on the property. The distillery will include a full-production facility for bourbon and rye whiskeys, a visitor center, and a retail space. The renovated facility will offer 30-foot glass windows showcasing views of the Ohio River and the iconic railroad bridge. The distillery is expected to open in early 2025.
Andrew Powell, co-founder of Henderson Distilling, expressed his gratitude for the support received, stating, “We are excited to rekindle the distilling industry in Henderson and create world-class spirits.”
The Impact on Henderson’s Community and Tourism
This groundbreaking event concludes National Bourbon Heritage Month, celebrating Kentucky’s $9 billion bourbon industry. The addition of Henderson Distilling will further enhance Kentucky’s thriving tourism sector, which attracts millions of visitors annually.
Local leaders, including Henderson County Judge/Executive Brad Schneider and Henderson Mayor Brad Staton, applauded the project’s potential to draw thousands of visitors to the area, fostering economic growth and community pride. Missy Vanderpool, executive director of Henderson Economic Development, noted that this marks a transformative moment for the county, while Abby Dixon, executive director of the Henderson Tourist Commission, emphasized the importance of bourbon tourism in boosting local economies.
Kentucky’s Economic Growth Under Gov. Beshear
The Henderson Distilling project is part of the best four-year period for economic growth in Kentucky’s history. Since taking office, Gov. Beshear has announced over $32.5 billion in private-sector investments, creating 55,000 jobs across the commonwealth.
Kentucky continues to attract significant investments, such as the $5.8 billion BlueOval SK Battery Park and Toyota’s $1.3 billion investment. These investments have positioned Kentucky as a leader in electric vehicle battery production and advanced manufacturing.
Kentucky has also achieved a record low unemployment rate, rising wages, and a robust General Fund surplus. The state’s success in economic development was recognized in Site Selection magazine’s 2023 Governor’s Cup rankings, where Kentucky ranked third nationally for economic development projects per capita.
Supporting Economic Development in Henderson
The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) has preliminarily approved incentives for Henderson Distilling under the Kentucky Business Investment program. The company will be eligible for tax incentives based on job creation and investment targets. Additionally, Henderson Distilling will benefit from Kentucky’s workforce development services, which provide recruitment, training, and job placement assistance.
Henderson Distilling Co. is set to contribute significantly to the revitalization of Henderson’s downtown area, strengthening both the local community and Kentucky’s renowned bourbon industry.
For more information on Kentucky’s economic development efforts, visit CED.ky.gov.
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