Guthrie, McConnell, Rogers, Comer Reintroduce Cumberland Expressway Legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), along with Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05) and Congressman James Comer (KY-01), and U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) reintroduced a bill in the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate, respectively, to help attract federal funding to the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Expressway through a designation change.

By designating Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Expressway as a federal spur of Interstate-65, the expressway would be eligible for federal assistance and funding. This bill would begin the designation process, which would ultimately promote economic development to the surrounding communities. Adair, Barren, Metcalfe, Pulaski and Russell counties are located along the expressway.

“Designating the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Expressway as a federal spur may seem like a small change, but it would make a big difference to the communities along this highway,” said Congressman Guthrie. “This would unlock federal funds for projects on the expressway and could bring exciting economic opportunities as the region recovers from COVID-19. I thank Senator McConnell for his leadership in the Senate and Representatives Rogers and Comer for their partnership in the House. I hope this bill to kickstart the new designation moves swiftly through Congress and is signed into law.”

“Communities across Southern Kentucky are ready to step on the gas and come roaring back after COVID-19. Opening the Cumberland Expressway to federal resources can boost investment and economic opportunity across this region,” said Senator McConnell. “With Congressmen Guthrie, Rogers and Comer, I’m proud to encourage growth, tourism and safe travel on this important roadway. I look forward to working with my Kentucky colleagues to advance this legislation.”

“It is no secret that economic development tends to occur around major interstates and expressways, which is why I fully support this important designation. The Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Expressway is a step in the right direction, making important federal resources available to continue expressway development,” said Congressman Rogers. “My Kentucky colleagues and I will continue to champion infrastructure projects that give our people the chance to grow their businesses and careers here at home.”

“The most effective thing we can do to help our economy recover from COVID-19 is promote policies that encourage economic development. Designating the Cumberland Expressway as an interstate spur will boost Kentucky’s rural economy by opening the door to federal investment in our highway infrastructure,” said Congressman Comer. “Adair, Metcalfe, and Russell Counties in the 1st District would strongly benefit from this designation, and I’m thankful to Senator McConnell, Congressman Guthrie, and Congressman Rogers for their partnership in introducing this legislation.”

Last week the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Parkway was renamed the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Expressway through legislation advanced by the Kentucky General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Andy Beshear. The changing of the name will help the expressway qualify for federal funding and help incentivize innovation for the region.