MAYSVILLE, Ky. (FOX 56) — Gov. Andy Beshear came bearing gifts for Rowan and Morgan counties during a visit to Morehead today. He announced millions of dollars in funding for several projects.

On Monday at the Morehead campus of Maysville College, Governor Beshear awarded three and a half million dollars in state development money, including about $650,000 for improvements at the Morehead-Rowan County Regional Airport.

“2022 was the best year for the economic impact of tourism in Kentucky’s history,” Beshear said.

Beshear spoke to a crowd of working-class people about the future of eastern Kentucky. Not only did he announce $3.5 million to support such things as the airport, a senior center, and recycling, but he also helped celebrate a much bigger investment from St. Claire Healthcare for a new rural clinic in West Liberty.

“This $11 million project over the course of the next three years will bring not only advanced and enhanced clinical care to the people of Morgan County in the region but also expand our educational mission,’ Donald Llyod, CEO of St. Claire, said.

St. Claire Healthcare, Maysville Community College, and Edgewater Recovery will also create opportunities for people in recovery to get jobs and more education.

“It’s going to ensure those living with addiction have the high-quality health care they deserve, and that helps them be productive citizens. Edgewater Recovery Center works collaboratively with St. Clair to provide continued education and training regarding addiction and peer support,’ Governor Beshear said.

Beshear also awarded more than $200,000 to the Rowan County Tourism Commission for marketing the region as a place for meetings and conventions.

“Tourism supported 91,668 jobs. Visitors to the Commonwealth surpassed pre-pandemic levels. We want to keep this momentum going and support tourism in every corner of the Commonwealth, including right here in Rowan County,’ Governor Beshear said.