AGP Executive Report

AI Data Centers in Kentucky: The U.S. Department of Energy is backing a $100B AI data center campus at the Paducah site, with Brookfield and NextEra leading the build and new power infrastructure designed for the project—leaders say it won’t raise residents’ bills, and that it could add thousands of construction jobs and hundreds of permanent roles. Local Infrastructure & Utilities: Broadband expansion continues in western Kentucky as Cornerstone Connectivity announces fiber investments in Carlisle County, with federal and state leaders pointing to rural economic growth and better access for students, patients, and businesses. Energy & Cost Concerns: Project partners say the hub will pair compute with dedicated generation and storage, while lawmakers and officials frame it as grid-strengthening rather than a cost shift to existing customers. Food & Agriculture: A cyclospora-linked lettuce scare is hitting restaurants nationwide, with Taco Bell removing shredded iceberg lettuce tied to Taylor Farms and reporting a sharp drop in visits—Kentucky is among the affected states. Workforce & Education: Taylor County High School’s ag education program earned a statewide “Outstanding” award for hands-on pathways and student-led economic impact. Community & Civic Life: Fancy Farm’s speaker lineup is finalized, with Democrat Rocky Adkins joining the Aug. 1 event as Kentucky’s political race season heats up.

AI & Data Centers in Kentucky: The U.S. Department of Energy says Brookfield and NextEra will redevelop the former Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant into a $100B AI data center campus, targeting 1.2+ GW of compute and up to 1.8 GW of utility capacity by 2032, with dedicated generation and battery storage planned; DOE expects about 8,000 construction jobs and 600 permanent roles. Energy & Grid Planning: The partners say surplus power could flow to the regional grid and are positioning the project to avoid passing energy costs to nearby residents and small businesses. Transportation & Construction: Louisville’s KYTC-led Main Remade project will convert the eastern stretch of Main Street (between Wenzel and 2nd) to two-way traffic by week’s end, adding crosswalk/intersection upgrades and a protected bike lane. Road Access Update: I-65 in Louisville reopened ahead of schedule, restoring two lanes each direction along the Central Corridor after bridge replacement work. Agriculture & Public Safety: Kentucky mourns Dale Dobson, a longtime farm safety advocate who helped build mental health and suicide-prevention efforts for farmers. Food Industry Watch: A major cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce continues to expand, with Kentucky included among affected states.

Hemp policy push: Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY) introduced the Lawful Hemp Protection Act to set a clear federal framework for hemp-derived consumer products, including U.S.-grown sourcing, testing/labeling standards, a ban on synthetic cannabinoids, and age limits to keep products away from kids. AI + data center fight: A company behind a proposed $4.8B hyperscale data center near Mammoth Cave sued Cave City after local leaders moved to delay the project, keeping Kentucky’s AI infrastructure debate front and center. Digital workforce investment: The University of Louisville launched the Kentucky Center for Digital Innovation with $10M in state funding to expand cybersecurity and AI research, plus workforce development and industry partnerships. Energy + industry pressure: Trump exempted two Kentucky chemical facilities from tougher EPA air rules, pushing compliance deadlines out by at least two years. Food safety watch: The CDC reported the Cyclospora outbreak count rose to 6,707 confirmed cases, with a separate lettuce-linked cluster still under investigation; Kentucky is among the affected states. Local infrastructure: I-65 in Louisville reopened ahead of schedule with lane closures and ongoing work through mid-2027. Agriculture on the ground: The Kentucky Dairy Development Council held the Riney Dairy Field Day in Springfield, highlighting dairy operations and silage demonstrations. Farm safety loss: Dale Dobson, longtime “Mr. Farm Safety,” died.

Transportation & Infrastructure: I-65 in Louisville is reopening to traffic Wednesday, three days ahead of schedule, restoring two lanes each direction as crews finish the I-65 Central Corridor bridge replacement project. Traffic Safety: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet crews will convert a Trenton intersection on U.S. 41, KY 104 and KY 848 to an all-way stop Friday around 9 a.m. Workforce & Tech Retention: A Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education brief says the state produces skilled grads, but many computer science, information systems and engineering graduates leave for higher pay; it urges stronger employer links and retention-focused scholarships. Local Governance & Data Centers: Louisville residents and activists are pushing back on proposed zoning rules for future data centers, citing pollution, noise and energy costs. Food & Consumer Impact: The cyclospora outbreak continues to expand nationally, with experts warning it could shift long-term consumer buying habits, including demand for produce like lettuce. Business & Finance: Kentucky First Federal Bancorp declared a $0.05 quarterly dividend payable Sept. 21. Public Safety & Courts: A federal judge remanded a UPS wrongful death case tied to a Louisville crash back to Kentucky court. Culture & Kentucky Industry: Colonel Sanders’ Kentucky home and memorabilia are set for auction in Shelbyville, drawing attention to the state’s food heritage.

Manufacturing & Jobs: Philip Morris opened a $1.2B ZYN nicotine pouch campus in Aurora, Colorado, expanding domestic production and adding hundreds of jobs—while Kentucky remains part of PMI’s broader manufacturing footprint. Energy Infrastructure: Atmos Energy is replacing aging natural gas pipe in Madisonville and Dawson Springs, with multiple street-by-street projects and service-line work planned this month. Local Governance & Industry: Hopkinsville residents packed a public hearing on proposed data center zoning rules, arguing over noise, lighting, water use, and who should pay for utility upgrades. Public Health: Kentucky is among nine states tied to a growing cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce; federal agencies are still sorting sources after earlier test confusion. Courts & Logistics: A federal judge ruled UPS’s Kentucky-based status for a Louisville-area crash wrongful-death case, keeping the fight in federal court. Transportation: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet crews plan to reopen two I-65 lanes by Saturday, but the corridor stays a construction zone with reduced speeds. Workforce & Safety: A Kentucky man was sentenced to 6+ years in federal prison for narcotics-related offenses tied to tampering with controlled substances. Community & Growth: Frankfort-area chamber CEO Tish Shade earned the Certified Chamber Executive designation, highlighting professional development in Kentucky’s business support ecosystem.

Manufacturing Expansion: ISCO Industries cut the ribbon on a new $12.75 million Riverport facility in Louisville, doubling its space and creating 50 full-time jobs, as demand grows for HDPE piping used across water, sewer, and mining/oil & gas. Energy Infrastructure: Atmos Energy will start two Dawson Springs pipeline replacement projects this month under its Kentucky Pipeline Replacement Program, targeting aging bare steel mains and dozens of service lines for safety upgrades. Flood Recovery: Gov. Andy Beshear marked the 4-year anniversary of Eastern Kentucky’s 2022 floods with new home keys in Hazard, groundbreaking in Knott County, and an executive order directing $2.5 million for additional high-ground rebuilds. Public Health: The cyclosporiasis outbreak keeps widening nationally; Kentucky is among the affected states tied to iceberg lettuce linked to Taylor Farms, with officials still working to pin down the source. Agriculture & Weather: USDA/Pro Farmer reporting shows crop stress from Midwest heat, while Kentucky faces hot, humid conditions and the risk of strong storms later today. Workforce/Community: Kentucky State University Extension educator Kimberly Harriford earned a national award for family and consumer sciences work in the Bowling Green area.

AI Data Centers in Kentucky: TeraWulf’s AI facility deal with Anthropic and other major AI buildouts are pushing the state deeper into the data-center boom, even as lawmakers and communities debate costs and impacts. Energy & Environment Funding Gridlock: Senate appropriations for energy and environment programs are stalled, leaving uncertainty for EPA, Interior and DOE work as the Sept. 30 deadline nears. Food Industry Shock (Cyclospora): The Cyclospora outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce has expanded to nine states, with Kentucky included, and Taylor Farms temporarily shutting a central Mexico facility tied to the recall. Kentucky Manufacturing Growth: WILDE is scaling high-protein snacks with a new 130,000-square-foot Winchester plant, aiming to triple production and add nearly 200 jobs. Construction & Housing: Work has started on Ann Street Limited in Newport, adding 11 infill homes with EV chargers, while Improveit Home Remodeling announces expansion into Charlotte. Public Safety: Storms caused power outages across western Kentucky, and a Magoffin County mobile home collapse killed a worker during leveling work. Local Justice: Kentucky legal leaders were honored for expanding access to justice and pro bono services.

Food Safety Fallout: The CDC and FDA widened the Cyclospora outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, adding four states and bringing the total to nine—now including Kentucky—after cases linked to Taylor Farms’ recalled product were reported in Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Kentucky. Local Agriculture: Kentucky farmers say shoppers are shifting toward local greens as a precaution, even as summer supply limits what they can offer. Public Health + Retail Impact: Confirmed cases tied to Taco Bell exposure now total 1,947 with at least 98 hospitalizations nationwide, and retailers are seeing traffic and lettuce sales drop. Energy + Infrastructure Debate: Kentucky’s data-center boom keeps colliding with community concerns over water, power, and costs, with state and local leaders pushing for rules that keep infrastructure expenses off ratepayers. State Policy + Environment: Kentucky is also stepping up kudzu control efforts, including drone-based testing in eastern Kentucky to tackle the fast-growing invasive vine.

Food Safety & Agriculture: The CDC and FDA widened the Cyclospora outbreak tied to recalled iceberg lettuce from central Mexico to nine states, with Kentucky now included; totals reached 1,947 sickened and at least 98 hospitalizations, while Taylor Farms says the FDA hasn’t confirmed positive test results and it expanded recalls. Local Farming Impact: Kentucky farmers say shoppers are shifting toward local greens and other produce as concerns grow, even as summer heat limits supply. Bourbon Industry: Old Forester (Louisville) released its 117 Series “Triple Char” Kentucky Straight Bourbon, made entirely from whiskey distilled at its Main Street distillery and charred longer for deeper oak character. Energy & Costs: AAA reports the national gas average jumped to $4.09, and Kentucky prices stayed volatile in county-by-county GasBuddy reports. Data Centers & Local Governance: A Kentucky land development firm sued Cave City over a data center moratorium, arguing the ban was rushed and violated state law. Community & Rural Industry: Mayfield’s Independence Bank is sponsoring a Tractor Drive fundraiser for scholarships and the “Shop with a Deputy” program.

Food Safety & Local Agriculture: The CDC and FDA say the Cyclospora outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce has expanded to nine states, now including Kentucky and Indiana, with 1,947 reported illnesses and 98 hospitalizations; local farmers at Kentucky markets say shoppers are asking for locally grown greens as a “safer” alternative, even as summer heat limits supply. Public Health Watch: Federal officials warn the true case count is likely higher because many people aren’t tested, while investigators keep tracing the lettuce supply chain and other unrelated clusters. State Politics: Mitch McConnell’s prolonged absence is raising GOP concerns about stalled Senate legislation and the risk of missed deadlines. Kentucky Campaign Trail: Democrat Rocky Adkins, launching his governor bid, will speak at the Fancy Farm Picnic lineup, while Gov. Andy Beshear skips the event. Education & Growth: Nelson County Schools is moving ahead with campus improvement plans, including Phase One work at Nelson County High School and a new softball field. Business & Manufacturing: Heaven Hill Brands earns a 3rd straight U.S. Best Managed Company honor, citing innovation and digital transformation.

Data Centers & Local Control: Bullitt County put a 12-month moratorium on new data center proposals while it drafts rules over water and power strain; nearby communities are also pushing back, including Campbellsburg’s city council moving to refuse data center applications/permits for a temporary period. Food Safety & Agriculture: The CDC and FDA widened the Cyclospora outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce, now reaching nine states including Kentucky, with nearly 2,000 reported infections linked to the Taylor Farms/Taco Bell cluster; Taylor Farms says it’s paused central Mexico iceberg lettuce sourcing and issued broader recalls “out of an abundance of caution.” Kentucky Roads & Construction: KYTC is set to start a multi-year Lafayette Road (KY 107) project in Christian County at Lovers Lane, adding turning lanes and improving sight lines, with closures expected to run into 2027. Hemp Policy: Kentucky hemp farmers are bracing for a Nov. 12 federal change that could reclassify many products as Schedule I, while a bipartisan “Lawful Hemp Protection Act” would create a national regulatory framework and adjust THC limits. Energy/Travel Infrastructure: A $6.8M Scott County I-75 rest area upgrade begins Monday, expanding truck parking and lighting with limited access during construction. Workforce & Industry Education: CREF’s executive director Brandon Eckenrode stepped down July 17, with the foundation’s collision repair education mission and programs continuing.

Hemp Policy: Kentucky Rep. Andy Barr and Minnesota Rep. Angie Craig’s Lawful Hemp Protection Act is gaining industry attention for proposing a new federal regulatory framework and revising the incoming THC limits that could wipe out most hemp products. Affordable Housing: Louisville broke ground on a Goodwill Opportunity Campus development with 76 apartments in west Louisville, priced from about $695 to $1,300, aiming to connect residents to nearby health care and services. Public Health/Ag Supply Chain: Kentucky is again in the middle of the expanding cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico; CDC and FDA say cases now span nine states, with investigations and recalls still in play. Data Centers & Land Use: Mercer County residents packed a planning meeting to oppose a proposed data center ordinance over farmland protection, water concerns, and public safety—no vote yet. Healthcare Investment: Kosair for Kids is donating $1M to help Baptist Health La Grange launch a Level II NICU, bringing specialized newborn care closer to home. Business & Growth: IKO Commercial added new independent sales agencies covering Kentucky and surrounding states to expand contractor support for commercial roofing.

Pipeline & Power Transition: A proposed 42-mile natural gas pipeline extension tied to TC Energy and Columbia Gulf Transmission would feed EKPC’s Hugh L. Spurlock Generating Station as the utility plans to shift units to burn up to 50% natural gas—neighbors in Rowan, Fleming and Mason counties say they were blindsided by route impacts and safety concerns. Food Safety & Local Retail: The FDA flagged a new cyclosporiasis outbreak (72 cases) and Walmart pulled bagged iceberg lettuce in 27 states after possible Cyclospora links; Taco Bell also removed Taylor Farms lettuce, with Kentucky among states previously tied to the larger outbreak. Transportation & Driver Education: KYTC is hosting a public meeting July 28 on the Fairview Drive roundabout in Daviess County, with a presentation on how to navigate modern roundabouts and an update on the opening timeline. Healthcare Policy: Kentuckians with disabilities and advocates are pushing back on looming 4% Medicaid cuts to waiver services, arguing the reduction threatens care stability. Energy Costs Watch: GasBuddy reports the lowest midgrade diesel/midgrade prices in parts of eastern Kentucky this week, with Breathitt County midgrade hitting $4.19 and diesel pricing varying sharply by county. Workforce: Kentucky Career Center will hold a Paducah job fair July 28 with openings ranging from school bus drivers to warehouse and delivery roles. Manufacturing Spotlight: Midmark celebrated renovations at its Glasgow facility, highlighting expanded workspaces and tech for medical, dental and veterinary products. Tech & Utilities: PPL signed the White House Ratepayer Protection Pledge, arguing regulator-approved tariffs already protect existing customers as data centers grow.

Food Safety & Schools: Kentucky is among states hit by the expanding cyclospora outbreak tied to produce, raising fresh questions for school nutrition teams as some districts pull fresh items to protect students. Public Health & Consumer Risk: Lawsuits are piling up over lettuce-linked illness, while FDA/CDC messaging continues to shift as investigators work to pinpoint sources. Energy & Power Reliability: Farmers RECC reports major storm-restoration progress in south-central Kentucky, cutting outages to 184, with crews still working through the hardest-to-reach damage. Economic Development & Real Estate: Louisville’s UofL unveiled a $70M bioscience hub as part of a broader innovation park, while Trigg County moved toward road and sidewalk upgrades for the I-24 Business Park using state grant pathways. Industrial & Logistics Moves: DAS Companies sold a West Donegal Township warehouse for $15.1M, signaling continued reshuffling in the logistics supply chain. Policy & Industry Watch: Kentucky’s data-center tax break debate is heating up as critics warn subsidies could balloon into a major public cost. Workforce & Community: A Franklin Fire Department lieutenant is set to retire after 44 years, a reminder of the local service backbone behind Kentucky’s industry growth.

Food Safety & Supply Chains: The multistate Cyclospora outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce continues to expand, with federal officials reporting 4,173 confirmed cases across 41 states and multiple clusters under investigation, while retailers and restaurants keep pulling recalled product. Public Health Policy: The U.S. House passed the Destruction of Hazardous Imports Act, which would let FDA destroy refused-admission items that pose significant public health concerns—aimed at stopping “port shopping” tactics. Kentucky Agriculture & Local Business: Madison County planners advanced a rezoning request for 700+ acres along U.S. 25 to create a business park funded partly by state dollars, drawing debate over farmland loss, traffic, and outside control. Energy & Infrastructure: Bass Pro Shops’ Paducah outpost construction is on track for a spring 2027 opening, with work still focused on underground wastewater and site prep. Industry & Tech: Greenup County’s Russell is fielding questions about a hyperscale data center proposal at the former AK Steel mill site, as the project’s power and water demands raise local concerns. Workforce & Education: Kentucky State University’s academic team earned a spot in the Honda Campus All-Star Challenge “Thrilling 32,” with nursing, engineering, and agriculture/food science majors representing the school. Legal & Consumer Protection: Attorney General Andy Barr backs a bipartisan effort to regulate intoxicating hemp-derived products ahead of a federal ban, seeking age limits and THC limits under FDA rules.

Sheep & Goat Breeding Training: Kentucky State University is pairing hands-on instruction with practical decision-making for sheep and goat producers, including a Small Ruminant Artificial Insemination Clinic at its Benson Farm. Hemp Product Regulation Push: Rep. Andy Barr introduced the Lawful Hemp Protection Act to set federal rules for intoxicating hemp-derived products, with age limits and tighter standards aimed at protecting Kentucky farmers and consumers. Prescription Drug Middlemen Fight: Kentucky’s AG James Comer backed the Pharmacists Fight Back Act targeting pharmacy benefit managers, arguing PBM practices are driving up prescription costs and squeezing community pharmacies. EV Charging Money: Gov. Beshear announced $2.5M to expand fast-charging EV stations statewide using Volkswagen mitigation funds, with broader public/private eligibility. Data Center Pressure in Kentucky: Shelbyville is moving toward a large-data-center moratorium after county action, while Hancock County residents are raising wildlife concerns tied to a proposed Hawesville project. Taylor Farms Cyclospora Fallout: FDA says a “false positive” lab result didn’t clear Taylor Farms; the multistate outbreak investigation still points to shredded iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, with case counts now topping 1,644. Local Infrastructure: Covington approved upgrades tied to its new city hall, plus Highway Ave./Altamont Rd. intersection improvements funded through a mix of foundation and federal dollars.