AGP Executive Report

Tourism Numbers: Paducah’s tourism hit a new high in 2025, generating $326.7 million in visitor spending and supporting 2,435 jobs, according to Kentucky’s Department of Tourism. Local Travel & Planning: KYTC is updating traffic plans for the KY 979 bridge replacement in Floyd County—no full closure at first, but drivers should expect shifting lanes, temporary signals, and delays. New Stops for Visitors: Frankfort’s Cold Creek Farm is expanding with The Golden Beet, a bigger, year-round eatery/market opening in late June. Wildlife & Nature: The Louisville Zoo welcomed three Amur tiger cubs—its first tiger births in more than two decades—while Eastern Kentucky researchers are tracking whip-poor-wills to understand why their calls are fading. Road Trip Culture: Route 66 turns 100 in 2026, and a new roundup highlights “dupes” across the U.S. that still capture the Mother Road vibe. Safety on the Water: Boating safety tips focus on life jackets and using kill switches properly—especially when riders get thrown overboard. Community Events: Pikeville Athletics is hosting a Maroon and White Gala fundraiser on June 19.

Wildlife & Travel Safety: Kentucky researchers are tracking the Eastern whip-poor-will’s migration to explain why its nighttime song seems to be fading, with tagged birds captured in Breathitt County. Road Trips & Local Tourism: KY 979 bridge work in Floyd County will keep traffic moving using a temporary diversion (single-lane with signals) instead of a full closure, with major delays expected. EV Charging for Visitors: New fast-charging stations are now open in Elizabethtown and Shepherdsville, adding more 400-kilowatt options for travelers. Outdoor Perks: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will waive day-use fees at recreation areas nationwide on June 16 (boat ramps and swimming beaches). Regional Growth: A study predicts Lyon County could see major population growth by 2050, citing Kentucky Lake access and tourism-driven community momentum. Local Events: Pikeville Athletics is launching a Maroon and White Gala on June 19 to raise support for Panther sports.

Tourism Numbers: Kentucky released 2025 tourism impact figures for Murray/Calloway County, showing $88.7 million in visitor spending (up 2.07% from 2024) and 690 hospitality jobs supported. More Local Tourism: Christian County reported $245 million in 2025 tourism spending, up 1.6% year over year, with 1,798 jobs and $16.4 million in state and local taxes. Outdoor Access: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will waive day-use fees at more than 2,800 recreation areas nationwide (including Cumberland River Basin sites) for its June 16 birthday, while camping fees remain unchanged. River Crossing Watch: Negotiations begin over Cave-In-Rock Ferry funding for FY 2027-28, with KYTC proposing $1.8 million per year and the ferry seeking a much larger increase. Road-Trip Stop: Buc-ee’s announced its first Arizona location—Goodyear—opening June 22 with 74,000 square feet and 120 fueling positions. Kentucky Bourbon Buzz: Bardstown Bourbon’s Lochs of Jura scored 99/100 to take top honors at the IWSC 2026 American Whiskey judging.

Tourism Numbers: Daviess County set a new 2025 tourism record, with visitors spending $262.9M and generating $20M in state and local tax revenue, plus 2,034 jobs. Local Travel & Events: Bowling Green-Warren County tourism says its attractions and arts/heritage push helped it surpass prior economic impact highs, with the Aviation Heritage Park highlighting why travelers keep coming back. Roads & Planning: Kenton County is asking residents to weigh in on a comprehensive 25-year transportation plan, aiming to reduce chaos and guide projects across all 19 cities. Waterfront Getaways: A new roundup spotlights five standout waterfront rentals across Kentucky, from a Bourbon Trail pond cabin to Lake Barkley lakefront stays. History for Visitors: Highlands DO!Zeum in the Bluegrass is hosting the Smithsonian traveling exhibit “Americans,” part of Museum on Main Street. Ferry Watch: Kentucky and Illinois officials are working to extend Cave-in-Rock Ferry funding before the June 30 deadline to avoid service interruptions. Wildlife Update: Kentucky officials confirmed a reported “mountain lion” near Richmond is actually a bobcat. Workforce & Growth: Gov. Andy Beshear says Team Kentucky training will support 7,400+ workers through the Bluegrass State Skills Corp. Coffee Chain Expansion: 7 Brew is coming to eastern Kentucky, with a new location planned near Lowe’s in Hazard.

Gas Prices Ease for Summer Trips: The national average for regular fell for a third straight week, dropping to about $4.12 per gallon as crude prices stay under $100. Workforce Boost for Tourism-Linked Jobs: Gov. Andy Beshear says Team Kentucky is funding training for 7,400+ workers through the Bluegrass State Skills Corp., including major employers in Owensboro, Louisville, Hopkinsville and more. Cave-in-Rock Ferry Talks: Kentucky and Illinois officials are negotiating to keep the Cave-in-Rock ferry running after June 30; the service runs 16 hours a day and carries about 300 vehicles daily at no cost. Road-Trip Safety in Work Zones: Legislators heard updates on Kentucky’s camera-assisted speed enforcement pilot, designed to cut speeding in construction areas. Kentucky Tourism Numbers: A new report says Fayette County tourism generated $1.71B in 2025, supporting 11,813 jobs and $133.7M in state/local tax revenue. Local Growth Watch: A study projects Lyon County could see the highest net migration rate among western Kentucky counties by 2050, helped by access to Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. Family Fun on the Calendar: Kentucky State Police Trooper Island Kids Camp is underway at Dale Hollow Lake, offering kayaking, swimming, archery and more for kids from western Kentucky. Historic Staycation Pick: Old Fort Harrod State Park in Harrodsburg is promoting living-history experiences and summer events for visitors looking for a close-to-home getaway.

Kentucky Tourism Record: Gov. Andy Beshear says 2025 was Kentucky’s best tourism year ever, with 81.1 million visitors and $14.6 billion in economic impact—supporting about 96,993 jobs. Local Visitor Dollars: Paducah hit a $326.7 million tourism spending record in 2025, backing 2,435 local jobs and $26.5 million in state and local tax revenue. Pride & Welcome: Lexington is leaning into LGBTQ+ travel as an economic driver, highlighting accessibility and a “feel welcome” experience for Pride visitors. Scenic Stops: USA TODAY spotlights three Kentucky “most treasured views”—Mammoth Cave, Cumberland Falls (moonbow), and Natural Bridge—as must-see road trip anchors. Road-Trip Reality Check: Kentucky’s gas tax relief debate continues as officials weigh short-term savings against long-term road and bridge funding. Off-Road Tourism: ULTRA4 Racing Series is bringing a major off-road event to Hazard/Perry County in October, with plans for a year-round track. Community & Culture: A documentary project across the Ohio River corridor is capturing African American local history for future heritage tourism. Safety Note: Authorities confirmed a kangaroo escaped in Richmond and was safely recovered—an unusual reminder to keep exotic animals contained.

Tourism Economy Boom: Kentucky hit a record again in 2025, with 81.1 million visitors spending $10.4 billion and delivering $14.6 billion in total economic impact statewide—supporting 96,993 jobs. Local Tourism Records: Paducah’s tourism set a new high in 2025, generating $326.7 million in visitor spending, supporting 2,435 local jobs, and producing $26.5 million in state and local tax revenue. More Local Impact: Bowling Green and Warren County reported $495.2 million in tourism economic impact in 2025, with over $40 million going to state and local taxes and 4,020 jobs supported. Road & Ferry Updates for Travelers: KY 979 in Floyd County will close June 15–August for bridge replacement, with a signed detour route; and Cave-in-Rock ferry service could be disrupted if a new KYTC/IDOT funding deal isn’t finalized before July 1. Summer Safety: AAA warns that thieves target empty homes during travel season—use deadbolts, timers for lights, and trusted neighbor check-ins. Cyclist Caution: A survey names Kentucky’s scariest bridges for cyclists, including the Brookport Bridge (US 45) and the George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge. Big Summer Events: Horse Soldier Farms in Somerset plans a July 4 weekend celebration with country music, PBR, bourbon, fireworks, and family activities.

Appalachian Freedom Heritage Tourism: Ohio University Southern is documenting African American stories across the Ohio River corridor—Ohio, Kentucky and West Virginia—through a new documentary, “Telling Our Story – The African American Experience,” collecting oral histories from the Underground Railroad era through segregation and integration. Road & Travel Disruptions: KYTC has paused the Dixie Highway “road diet” plan in Boone and Kenton counties, switching to repaving and safety upgrades instead; and drivers should expect lane impacts on the Glover Cary Bridge near Madisonville as crews clear brush for upcoming inspections. Agri-tourism Legal Update: Kentucky’s Court of Appeals voided Malin’s Red Barn & Family Farm’s 2023 zoning change, a reminder that local rules can make or break visitor attractions. Local Visitor Economy: PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans is signing a 7-unit license deal to expand in Central Kentucky convenience stores. Outdoor & Heritage on the Move: Cyclists retracing the Trail of Tears continue through the region, with stops in Illinois that highlight historic sites tied to the journey. Wildlife Rescue: A rescued falcon in Inez was taken to authorities after a local spotted it near Turkey Creek Road and consulted state wildlife officials on next steps.

Road Safety & Planning: KYTC has paused the Dixie Highway “road diet” reconfiguration in Boone and Kenton counties after public backlash, saying the plan is “taken off the table” and will instead focus on repaving plus curb, sidewalk, and safety upgrades this summer. Gas Prices Watch: AAA says gas prices are still falling as crude stays under $100, with the national regular average down to about $4.16; locally, GasBuddy reports highlight low points like Nelson County regular at $3.95 and Whitley County premium at $4.77 for the week ending May 30. Tourism on Two Wheels: The Cherokee Nation’s 2026 Remember the Removal Bike Ride continues along the Trail of Tears, with cyclists crossing from Kentucky into Illinois and stopping at historic sites like Mantle Rock and Campground Cemetery. Travel Safety Incident: Kentucky State Police report a California woman died after being struck on I-75 northbound while chasing her escaped pet following a separate crash in Rockcastle County. Local Events: Louisville’s World Oddities Expo returns June 13-14, bringing vendors, performers, and “oddities” to the city for a weekend of unusual fun. Community & Access: Logan County received $62,300 in emergency road aid for drainage repairs on Homer Insco Road to improve safety for drivers, pedestrians, and school buses.

Mammoth Cave Guide: Mammoth Cave National Park is pitching itself as a year-round adventure, thanks to a steady ~54°F underground climate, plus deep history from Indigenous use to enslaved guides and major milestones like UNESCO World Heritage status. Road-Trip Research: A new study ranks Delaware as a top family road-trip state, spotlighting attractions, biodiversity, road quality, and weather reliability—useful inspiration for Kentucky travelers planning summer loops. Legislative Focus on Tourism: Kentucky lawmakers are in interim mode, with committee work that includes tourism and small business—aimed at shaping future session priorities around jobs, infrastructure, and local business support. Bourbon Business Watch: A Kentucky Castle-linked bourbon company (TKC Distilling/True Story) is facing $1.5M in legal complaints tied to alleged unpaid design and consulting bills. Outdoor Safety & Wildlife: Black bears are on the move in parts of the region, and officials urge Kentuckians to secure trash and remove pet food/birdseed. Travel Disruption: I-75 northbound near the 62-mile marker in Rockcastle County was shut down after multiple collisions, with detours advised. Gas Prices Snapshot: GasBuddy reports Kentucky regular averaging about $4.16 for the week ending May 30, with some counties seeing notably lower premium or regular rates. Local Distilling: Regeneration Distilling in Winchester is turning Kentucky farm crops into spirits under a “grain to glass” approach, with products sold in Kentucky and visitors welcome.

Road & Safety: Kentucky State Police shut down I-75 northbound near the 62-mile marker in Rockcastle County after multiple collisions; drivers are urged to use Exit 59 and follow US 25. Crash Update: In Morgan County, a tow-truck crash on KY-460 West near West Liberty Vet Clinic left one woman dead after being struck while exiting a lane to turn onto Veterinarian Lane. Tourism & Culture: A Fort Campbell behind-the-scenes visit highlights the 101st Airborne Division’s D-Day legacy, with a film tie-in aimed at drawing visitors to the base’s history. Community & Travel Stories: Kentucky State University graduate Somer Cedeno Jr. shares his journey from the Dominican Republic to Frankfort, a reminder of how travel shapes careers and connections. Local Travel Costs: GasBuddy reports show Kentucky regular gas averaging about $4.16 for the week ending May 30, with some counties dipping below $4.00. Health Alert: U.S. measles cases are on pace to surpass 2025’s record high, with most cases tied to unvaccinated people—important for travelers planning summer trips.

Road Safety: Kentucky State Police report a 61-year-old woman died Sunday after losing control of a three-wheeled motorcycle on a sharp curve on KY-53 in Anderson County. Weather Watch: Humidity is pushing scattered downpours into the afternoon through Thursday, with the biggest rain chances between noon and 7 p.m. and a risk of flash flooding. Politics & Travel: Gov. Andy Beshear is in Iowa for a campaign appearance, part of growing out-of-state activity as 2028 talk heats up. Bourbon Tourism: Larrikin Bourbon Co. brought home multiple ASCOT Awards honors, and named Susanna Westerfield as Director of Hospitality and Brand Engagement to grow visitor experiences. Local Culture Spotlight: Eastern Kentucky independent country artist Hailey Newman says her “Enjoy The View” has topped 500,000 reels across social platforms. Family Fun on the Road: The 400 Mile Yard Sale runs along U.S. 68 from Paducah to Maysville, drawing shoppers for deals and roadside finds. Arts in Kentucky: Cuban actress Claudia Valdés’ one-woman play “My Daughter is an Astronaut” includes a July 22 Louisville stop at The Clifton Theater.

Travel & Tourism Calendar: Railbird Music Festival is set to return to Lexington with national artists and thousands of visitors expected, and the Garden Club of Frankfort’s annual Home and Garden Tour (“Living in History”) runs June 13. Local Events & Community: The Kentucky Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics continues to expand—this year includes a Grant County leg—highlighting the state’s long-running fundraising tradition. Road & Safety: Kentucky State Police is investigating a fatal head-on crash in Adair County involving a 17-year-old juvenile and a 22-year-old driver; the juvenile later died from injuries. Arts & Culture: Cuban actress Claudia Valdés announced her U.S. tour for the one-woman play “My Daughter is an Astronaut,” with a Louisville stop at The Clifton Theater on July 22. Gas Prices Watch: GasBuddy reports show Kentucky fuel remains volatile, with examples including lowest regular at $3.89 in Lincoln County and lowest diesel at $4.99 in Adair County for the week ending May 30. Kentucky History: A new historical marker for P.O. Sweeney was unveiled at Cherokee Golf Course, spotlighting his civil rights work and legal victories.

Appalachian Heritage Tourism: Lawrence County commissioners recognized Johnston House and Post Office, plus Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, as part of the Appalachian Freedom Heritage Tourism Initiative—marking 27 Underground Railroad sites across the Tri-State region with plaques and national recognition for five local stops. Historic Marker in Louisville: A new historical marker unveiled at Cherokee Golf Course honors Louisville civil rights leader Dr. P.O. Sweeney, highlighting his role in desegregating parks and golf courses and fighting for equal pay for educators. Family Travel Moment in Owensboro: A surprise reunion and family celebration marked an Owensboro veteran’s 90th birthday, with his son traveling from Germany to surprise him. Gas Prices Watch: GasBuddy reports show Kentucky fuel prices vary by county, with some of the lowest recent finds including regular at $3.98 in Marion County and premium as low as $4.12 in Bourbon County—useful for road-trip planning. Outdoor & Community Events: Frankfort’s Garden Club hosts its Home and Garden Tour, “Living in History,” June 13 (10 a.m.-4 p.m.), featuring multiple historic homes and gardens.

Local History & Tourism: A new historical marker honoring Louisville civil rights leader Dr. P.O. Sweeney was unveiled June 6 at Cherokee Golf Course, spotlighting his 1947 lawsuit that helped desegregate Louisville’s public parks and golf courses. Road Travel Disruption: I-65 shut down in Louisville as demolition work begins, with knock-on issues reported on other highways. Safety on the Road: Kentucky State Police report a 17-year-old died after a head-on crash on KY 206 in Adair County; the driver of the concrete truck was not injured. Family-Friendly Summer Plans: The Garden Club of Frankfort hosts its annual Home and Garden Tour, “Living in History,” June 13 (10 a.m.-4 p.m.), featuring stops including Buffalo Trace Distillery’s arboretum. Outdoor Community: A riverfront cleanup in Paducah is set for Saturday to help protect the Ohio River as summer events ramp up. Gas Prices Watch: GasBuddy data for the week ending May 30 shows Kentucky regular averaging $4.16; notable lows include $3.98 in Marion County and $3.99 in Clinton and Harlan counties.

Agriculture & Energy: A new warning says the Hormuz Strait disruption isn’t just an oil story—fertilizer supply could be hit, with food-price shocks showing up in the next harvest. Sports Tourism: West Virginia is one win from the College World Series after a 12-2 Super Regional Game 1 win over Cal Poly; Game 2 is set for Saturday at Kendrick Family Ballpark in Granville. Music & Travel: Railbird Music Festival in Lexington is expected to draw up to 45,000 people per day, with Tyler Childers and The Lumineers headlining. Local Outdoors: The 7.5-mile Ohio River Greenway opened Friday, linking Jeffersonville to Louisville with skyline views for walkers and bikers. Family Fun: Kentucky’s biggest water-slide picks include Kentucky Kingdom’s Deep Water Dive and Beech Bend’s Cyclone Saucers. Air Service: Blue Grass Airport adds a second daily Delta flight to New York LaGuardia starting Sunday, June 7. Health & Access: A medical cannabis dispensary opened in Bowling Green, expanding local access for cardholders. Road Safety: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is pushing new truck-driver alerts for the I-65 “can opener” bridge after repeated low-bridge hits. Attractions & Culture: APH in Louisville is preparing to open The Dot Experience, billed as a highly inclusive museum. Lottery: A Bowling Green woman won $100,000 a year for life in Kentucky Lottery’s Millionaire for Life game.