McConnell Supports Next-Generation Drone Technology with Federal Grant

Statement

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) today announced the Troublesome Creek Environmental Authority (TCEA) received a $743,000 competitive federal grant from the U.S. Department of Interior's Abandoned Mine Land Economic Development Pilot Program (AML Pilot). The TCEA plans to use these federal resources to connect existing water and sewer lines to the USA Drone Port in Knott County. As a driver for economic development, the Drone Port is expected to create many jobs in the coming years as it becomes a hub for unmanned aerial and land vehicles.

Senator McConnell contacted the U.S. Department of Interior in support of TCEA's grant application.

As Senate Majority Leader, McConnell shepherded the legislation creating the AML Pilot to enactment with U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers (R-KY) in 2015. Since then, Senator McConnell and Congressman Rogers have helped secure $105 million from this federal program to be awarded for Kentucky projects, like this one for TCEA.

"Kentucky is recognized as a center for aerospace innovation, and the investment announced today will help boost that technological success to new heights," said Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. "Tapping into this region's bright future with these federal funds can fuel this industry's growth, supporting good jobs for families in Knott County and the region.

"I helped develop the AML Pilot program with Congressman Rogers to deliver much-needed federal resources to revitalize this region's economy and to improve the lives of families in our coal communities," McConnell continued. "As Senate Majority Leader and a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, I make funding this program a top priority each year to continue its innovative work. Congressman Rogers and Governor Bevin continue to be strong partners in this effort, and I'm confident today's grant announcements will benefit families and communities throughout Eastern Kentucky."

"The Troublesome Creek Environmental Authority wishes to thank Senator McConnell for his efforts in securing funding, through the AML Pilot program, for our project which will bring water and sewer to the USA Drone Port," said Don Gibson, Chairman of the TCEA. "The USA Drone Port is the only one of its type in the United States. Providing water and sewer to it will assist in enticing businesses who wish to test unmanned vehicles for the development of their future endeavors. We look forward to the growth of the Drone Port and eagerly await the creation of new jobs which will greatly benefit our local economy."

Source