WASHINGTON, D.C. – After advocacy by Congressman Comer, the Appalachian Regional Commission has approved a $616,900 economic development grant to the Metcalfe County Fiscal Court for improvements to a county-owned building that will house the Pennington Stave and Cooperage.

This innovative new business will invest $3.5 million and create 60 new jobs in Metcalfe County to manufacture barrels for Kentucky’s signature bourbon industry.

“As we emerge from the economic damage caused by COVID-19, rural Kentucky is desperately in need of jobs and economic opportunity. I was thrilled to join local leaders in supporting this investment in a homegrown manufacturing operation, and look forward to seeing the contributions that Pennington Stave and Cooperage will make in Metcalfe County for years to come,” Congressman Comer said.

The investment comes in addition to state and local match contributions, and will provide for utility work and expansion of an existing building to house the facility at the Metcalfe County Industrial Park.