FRANKFORT, KY (October 19, 2018) – The Department for Local Government (DLG) has announced a $1 million Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to Simpson County on behalf of the Franklin-Simpson County Economic Development Authority. The federal funds will allow the development authority to construct a rail spur in the Wilkey North Industrial Park, which will serve the Fritz Winter North America LP automotive parts plant.
The rail spur will be constructed off the CSX railroad’s main line to the production facility and will help the company more efficiently receive raw materials and ship products. The iron casting foundry and manufacturing facility in Franklin
opened last year and could eventually bring more than 300 jobs to the area. The CDBG funds alone are expected to create 60 jobs.
“In the past few years, Fritz Winter has pledged nearly $200 million to open this foundry in Simpson County, which affirms what Kentuckians already know about our Commonwealth – that it’s home to a highly sought-after workforce and is a place where industry can thrive,” DLG Commissioner Sandra K. Dunahoo said. “The iron foundry has already had a significant economic impact on Simpson County, and I look forward to the new opportunities that will be created as this Fritz Winter facility continues to grow.”
“I see this grant funding as the continuation of a successful first year for Fritz Winter,” Sen. David Givens said. “I’d like to thank Commissioner Dunahoo and her staff at the Department for Local Government for helping to secure these funds for such a worthwhile project.”
“Fritz Winter’s decision to locate in Simpson County has been a game-changer for many local families,” Rep. Wilson Stone said. “I am pleased to see these resources directed toward the company’s growth. I look forward to seeing the impact Fritz Winter will have on the community in the future.”
The CDBG program, overseen by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, provides assistance to communities for use in revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities, providing infrastructure and/or improving community facilities and services.
To learn more about CDBG and other grant opportunities available through DLG, visit
dlg.ky.gov.
