U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell, R-Louisville, has released a statement applauding the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) decision to provide the additional $26.7 million in federal funding for the construction of the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Forage-Animal Production Unit at the University of Kentucky.
“I’m honored to have helped secure funding for the establishment and construction of this project over the years, and it’s great to see this final piece go into place for Kentucky’s leading agricultural research lab,” McConnell said. “There is no doubt this funding will help the University of Kentucky continue to solidify itself as the center for agricultural research in the Commonwealth, and I’m grateful for its work in this field. Our shared belief in improving the lives of Kentucky farmers and enhancing our agriculture industry through research has made for a productive working relationship that has delivered results for Kentuckians.”
This announcement from USDA builds upon federal funding McConnell previously helped secure for the UK ARS Lab amounting to $65.9 Million in Fiscal Year 2020 and another $10 million in Fiscal Year 2026.
UK President Eli Capilouto said: “The University of Kentucky is deeply grateful to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for this significant investment in agricultural research and to Senator Mitch McConnell for his steadfast leadership in helping make this project a reality. This funding represents a transformative step forward for the Agricultural Research Service Forage-Animal Production Unit and reinforces Kentucky’s position as a national leader in agricultural innovation. The collaboration among USDA, the Agricultural Research Service and the University of Kentucky will expand our ability to conduct groundbreaking research that supports farmers and strengthens rural communities, advancing the future of agriculture. We are proud to continue this partnership in service to the Commonwealth.”
Groundbreaking was held in June 2024 and the facility was expected to be ready this November, but the project was delayed with no new competition has been announced.
The 263,000-square-foot building will be the college’s central research hub, aligned with its teaching and extension missions, which serve the entire Commonwealth.
The 84-year-old McConnell is still recovering at home from a fall he suffered in June and has not made any public appearances since the accident. He is not seeking re-election in November.
FILE - Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., speaks at an event, Aug. 2, 2025, in Fancy Farm, Ky. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey, File)
- Mark Humphrey
