WASHINGTON, D.C. (WMDJ) — U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers announced that nearly $85 million in Community Project Funding for Eastern Kentucky projects has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee, moving the requests forward for consideration by the full House.

Several of the proposed projects would directly benefit communities across the Big Sandy region and surrounding areas.

Among the largest requests is $26 million for improvements to the U.S. 460 corridor between Salyersville and Paintsville, aimed at increasing safety and expanding capacity along one of the region’s major transportation routes.

In Floyd County, $7 million has been proposed for improvements to the Southern Water and Sewer District, funding upgrades to water infrastructure serving more than 14,000 homes, schools, businesses and the local hospital.

Martin County could receive $7.3 million for the Downtown Inez Infrastructure and Revitalization Project, which would repair aging water and utility systems while preparing the area for future economic development.

The proposal also includes $4 million for the Skyview Phase II Housing Development in Perry County, supporting construction of flood-resilient, energy-efficient homes on higher ground.

In Prestonsburg, $2 million is slated for construction of a downtown parking garage, a project intended to address growing parking demands in an area with limited available space for expansion.

Another regional project includes $20 million for the Hazard Airport Runway Project, which would extend the runway at Wendell H. Ford Airport to improve safety and support future commercial and industrial growth.

Rogers said the funding package is designed to strengthen infrastructure, expand housing opportunities and support long-term economic development across Eastern Kentucky.

The projects are included in the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, which now advances to the full House for consideration.