Business Attraction Along Kentucky's I-71 Corridor: Why Location Still Drives Investment

Business attraction is a core pillar for the Kentucky I-71 Economic Development Alliance (KIEDA), and it is much more than marketing the region. It's about building a compelling case for investment grounded in data, cost advantages, and proven performance for site selectors and business executives.

For KIEDA, this work is laser-focused: identify and recruit industries that align with regional strengths, maximize economic impact, and deliver real returns for our communities.

Positioned for Investment

The I-71 Corridor is 60 miles of build-ready opportunity between Louisville and Cincinnati. Four industrial parks, interstate access, dual international airports, rail access, and barge routes along the Ohio River give companies logistical advantages from day one. Businesses located here reduce shipping times, cut energy and labor costs, and access a workforce trained for modern industry.

Our infrastructure is a competitive asset, not a work in progress. Over 100 miles of CSX Railroad connects Louisville and Cincinnati, including several industrial sites in Carroll, Gallatin, Henry, and Oldham counties with adjacent rail lines. Traffic counts on I-71 exceed 66,000 vehicles per day. Carroll County alone supports 3.3 million gallons of wastewater treatment capacity. This region was built to scale.

Business Attraction in Action

Consider Nucor Corporation. Their $650 million expansion in Gallatin County wasn't just a win for the steel industry. It triggered workforce demand, supplier opportunities, and construction spending throughout the region.

Or PMC Organometallix, which operates one of the world’s largest manufacturing facilities of its kind in Carroll County, producing its flagship Thermolite® and ADVASTAB® organotin stabilizers, FASCAT® catalysts, and fine chemicals such as Grignard reagents. The facility employs approximately 145 people.

When done right, business attraction results in targeted growth, new jobs, and diversified tax bases.

What Sets KIEDA Apart

KIEDA delivers hands-on support from interest to operation. That includes site readiness, incentive packaging, and workforce development strategies for industry needs. Businesses gain a partner with local knowledge and regional reach, not another bureaucratic obstacle slowing down growth.

Access to reliable utility partners, collaborative local and state leaders, and engaging land owners are a significant factor in the reason that businesses operating in our region gain from working with KEIDA. These business chose the I-71 Corridor for the same reason others will: it adds up.

By the Numbers:

• Labor costs: 20% below national average
• Utility rates: among the lowest in the U.S.
• Population served: nearly 120,000 across five counties
• Industrial land: affordable, accessible, and shovel-ready
• Workforce: large, skilled, and affordable

Industries We're Built For:

• Steel and advanced metals
• Automotive manufacturing and supply chain
• Plastics and chemicals
• Logistics and distribution
• Food and beverage processing
• Agriculture
• Destination Tourism
• Energy

A Corridor That Delivers

Business attraction is active, targeted, and rooted in value. The I-71 Corridor delivers the location advantages, infrastructure, and workforce companies need without the cost burden of nearby major metros like Louisville, Lexington, or Cincinnati.
Get the Information You Need
If you're planning a relocation, expansion, or greenfield investment, talk to KIEDA. We'll provide detailed data on sites, labor, incentives, and costs without delay.

Contact KIEDA to evaluate your next business location.