FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Breathitt County Museum Board was named as a recipient of a grant totaling $305,986 from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), Gov. Andy Beshear announced Tuesday. The board will use the funds to transform their historic former jail building into a tourist destination in downtown Jackson.
The board will convert the site to a low-cost, one-stop shop for local artisans and entrepreneurs to sell arts and crafts and encourage visitors to participate in the local economy.
ARC funding is designed to help economically distressed counties in Appalachian Kentucky strengthen industry and build a stronger economic future. The Department for Local Government (DLG) administers ARC funding at the state level.
“We look forward to the completion of this project, because it will encourage visitors to experience our communities and participate in the local economies, making a meaningful difference in Breathitt County and in the region,” said LG Commissioner and Gov. Beshear’s ARC Representative Dennis Keene.
Beyond providing local artisans a venue to sell their items, the new center will also provide visitors with information on other local businesses, restaurants and entertainment venues. Upon completion, the site is expected to attract 5,200 visitors annually and create one job.
In addition to ARC funds, local sources will provide $86,714, making the total project funding $392,700.
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