Metro Lex News

The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding $4.7 million to the City of Richmond, Kentucky, for building renovations aimed at supporting substance abuse workforce development in the region. The facility will house 50-72 recovery beds for men and will be operated by New Vista, which will implement a workforce program and employ approximately 41 full-time service, support, and clinical staff. The investment will be supplemented by contributions from the City of Richmond and Madison County, each providing $1.5 million.

"Access to the right resources is vital in the fight against substance abuse, and this grant will equip Madison County with essential care, support, and job opportunities," said Congressman Andy Barr. "I was pleased to advocate for this federal funding and am humbled by the innovative approach these partners have taken to meet this need in a way that will positively impact Richmond and our region. I look forward to seeing the impact this project has on our community."

Richmond Mayor Robert Blythe expressed gratitude for Congressman Barr's support: "We want to thank Congressman Barr's office for his support on this project. A men's rehab center is one of the missing pieces of the puzzle in our community to help people recover from addiction. This has been a long-standing partnership between the City of Richmond, Bluegrass Area Development District, New Vista, and the Fletcher Group. Working together as a team to get this application across the goal line was no small feat and we want to also thank Bertha Partin at the EDA office for her patience and direction."

Madison County Judge Executive Reagan Taylor also highlighted local collaboration: "It is a great day in Madison County when we can further support our community’s fight against this drug epidemic. We are grateful for Congressman Barr’s influence and the partners at Bluegrass Area Development District who led the way on this project," he said. "When the City of Richmond asked for our help funding this project, the Fiscal Court was quick to obligate opioid settlement funds to match the EDA grant because we know how important the treatment piece is in this fight. Being able to establish a men’s recovery center in Madison County is a great thing and something we are happy to support and work together on for the betterment of Madison County."