KIEDA Fall Forum 2025 Highlights Regional Strategy and Collaboration Along the I-71 Corridor

The Kentucky I-71 Economic Development Alliance (KIEDA) hosted its 2025 Fall Forum on October 24 at Perry Park Golf Resort in Owen County. The event brought together more than 85 regional and state leaders to discuss infrastructure investment, workforce challenges, and competitiveness across the I-71 Corridor.

Partnership Defines the Region’s Growth Strategy

Jessica Moore, Executive Director of KIEDA, opened the forum by emphasizing the Alliance’s mission to advance coordinated growth along the corridor. Joined by Owen County Judge Executive Todd Woodyard, she highlighted how public and private collaboration continues to shape the region’s success.

“Our region’s momentum relies on partnership,” Moore said. “We’re focused on finding ways to align communities and industries to make beneficial progress together.”

Energy and Infrastructure Anchor Competitiveness

Derek Rahn, Director of Business and Economic Development for LG&E and KU, emphasized that energy reliability and infrastructure readiness remain crucial to business attraction. His remarks reinforced the continued need for investment in utility infrastructure improvements and site development. Specifically, it is about keeping pace with growth, while positioning the region for long-term competitiveness.

He detailed how LG&E and KU partner with local economic development organizations to prepare sites that meet industrial needs, attract advanced manufacturing, and encourage investment through dependable and affordable energy delivery.

Statewide Policy Supports Regional Success

Kate Shanks, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, addressed the state’s competitiveness agenda and how public policy connects directly to workforce participation and housing availability.

She explained that improving access to childcare and addressing housing shortages have evolved into critical components of Kentucky’s economic foundation, rather than social priorities. Her message was clear. Communities along the I-71 Corridor that advocate together build a coalition that strengthens the state’s position for investment and job creation.

Infrastructure Takes Center Stage

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray delivered the keynote address, underscoring the link between infrastructure, safety, and growth. His presentation, "Moving Kentucky Forward," focused on how transportation investment leads to opportunities and enhances regional mobility.

Gray noted that coordinated planning across local governments ensures projects along the I-71 Corridor move efficiently from concept to construction, enabling faster business growth and improved connectivity.

Advancing Shared Goals

The event concluded with remarks from Jessica Moore, who reiterated KIEDA’s commitment to proactive regional development. Lunch and networking followed, with many attendees continuing discussions during the optional golf outing at Perry Park Golf Resort, one of Kentucky’s most historic courses.

Moore said that the forum’s success reflects a shared dedication and enthusiasm among counties to pursue related priorities that attract investment, benefiting the entire corridor.

Be a Part of KEIDA’s Next Phase of Growth

KIEDA invites community leaders, investors, and industry partners to participate in shaping the next stage of regional strategy. Learn more about ongoing initiatives and future events at https://www.ky71alliance.com/.