Frankfort, Kentucky

What is the FACT District’s estimated economic impact on our community?

The Franklin-Anderson Commerce and Technology (FACT) District aims to create 1,000 new jobs in target industries with an average wage of $62,000. Specialized professions include advanced manufacturing, agriculture-technology, and life sciences.

This is a once-in-a-generation investment to create good-paying jobs and protect our quality of life through thoughtful, sustainable planning. The FACT District will increase our public funds, ultimately supporting our roads, schools, parks, public works and other community resources.

​

These jobs also indirectly affect spending on things like groceries, gas, restaurants, and housing. Adding new jobs in the Information and Manufacturing sectors strengthens Franklin County’s economy and stimulates job growth in other industries. For every industrial job created, several additional jobs emerge in sectors such as skilled trades, retail, education, and healthcare. These opportunities could be filled by young professionals from Franklin and Anderson Counties, fostering local talent retention and long-term community growth. The increased tax revenue can fund a long list of community improvements, such as a convention center, an indoor swimming pool, park improvements, etc.

Source: The Multiplier Effect: Which Industries are the Biggest Job Creators?

​

Is the Fact District included in Franklin County’s Comprehensive Plan?

The comprehensive plan established a vision of sustainable growth that is represented in the FACT District. The plan set clear goals to more than double the industrial land in Franklin County, encouraging economic and industrial development that provides quality, high-paying jobs and contributes to economic and social advancement. The plan also identifies guidelines to responsibly and sustainably deliver on this promise, which the proposed FACT District aims to follow.

 

Why was this location chosen for the FACT District?

We chose this location on Highway 127 because it aligns with the following evaluation priorities from the Kentucky Product Development Initiative.

​

1. Property Availability

Current landowners have agreed to sell their property to the Franklin Anderson Industrial Development Authority (FAIDA) or a participating local government.

​

2. Property Development Ability

The proposed FACT District location is developable, meaning it meets the following criteria. The acreage will be clearly defined and is free of impediments such as flood zones, wetlands, and certain environmental conditions.

​

3. Zoning Availability

The property can potentially be rezoned for the new FACT District.

​

4. Transportation Accessibility

A four-lane highway directly serves the land.

​

5. Utility Adequacy

The Fact District is positioned perfectly for access to electrical, natural gas, water, wastewater, and fiber infrastructure.

 

What is the Kentucky Product Development Initiative (KPDI) Grant?

Established in 2022 by the Kentucky General Assembly, the Kentucky Product Development Initiative (KPDI) provides funding for site and infrastructure upgrades to promote economic growth across Kentucky.

​

How much funding is available through KPDI?

Each county can receive up to $2 million per project. Regional collaborations are encouraged as it allows counties to combine their funding sources.

​

Franklin County partnered with Anderson County, Lawrenceburg, and the City of Frankfort to form the Franklin Anderson Regional Industrial Development Authority (FAIDA). This partnership secured a $4 million match grant for site development and marketing.

​

What will the rezoning process be for any KPDI acquired land?

Land will need to be rezoned as a Planned Industrial District, which requires a rezoning hearing in front of the Frankfort and Franklin County Planning Commission.

 

How much land is needed for the FACT District?

The best practice for Economic Development recommends communities set aside at least 350 acres for their project. A maximum of 1,000 acres would indicate a project capable of attracting a minimum of 1,500 jobs. To date Franklin County has optioned about 220 acres for the project.

 

How is land acquired for the FACT District?

People who desire to sell their property for the proposed project are able to do so. No one is forced to sell or required to sell against their will.

 

How did potential agricultural impacts factor into FAIDA’s decision to choose this location for the FACT District?

We are proud of our strong agricultural community and know it is a crucial resource in our regional economy. According to the most recent Census data, Franklin County alone is home to 532 farms, comprising 63,623 acres of farmland. By comparison, the FACT District will use less than 0.005% of the county’s overall farmland. In the spirit of our farming neighbors, we will be good stewards of this land, ensuring strict environmental regulations for new businesses.

 

Will eminent domain be used in any capacity to implement this project for utilities, roads, sewer and other associated infrastructure?

The FACT District will not use eminent domain for the economic development of this site. However, utility expansions may require additional land. In that case, utility providers will work with landowners to ensure they are properly notified, engaged, and compensated.

 

How will the FACT District work with utilities to ensure responsible water and electrical usage?

The FACT District will work with the Frankfort Electric & Water Plant Board and Blue Grass Energy to ensure responsible utility usage. Blue Grass Energy has a sustainability initiative, Envirowatts, to encourage the use of renewable energy. Its diverse energy portfolio includes numerous renewable energy sources through its energy generator, East Kentucky Power Cooperative.

Adding industrial loads, such as the FACT District, also helps maintain lower energy costs for all Blue Grass Energy cooperative members. It often leads to the addition of new generation resources, including energy from renewable sources.

 

What steps is the FACT District taking to protect the environment during the construction phase and when the site becomes operational?

FAIDA and the FACT District will voluntarily implement stringent environmental regulations because this is a priority for our neighbors and our community.

 

Has FAIDA conducted an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for this land?

Preliminary geotechnical and site reviews have been conducted and have not uncovered any issues to date. We will continue to assess the site, including environmental and historic reviews, to ensure there are no adverse impacts to our community and the region.

 

To what extent are Franklin County's current industrial parks being utilized?

Current industrial parks in Franklin County are at capacity, the FACT district is needed to continue the planned and strategic economic growth of our region.

 

How can I get more information and stay updated on this project?

For the most up-to-date information, visit kycapitaldevelopment.com and follow us on the  KCDC Facebook Page. Tune into our social channels for notifications about public meetings and other opportunities to provide your invaluable feedback.

​