Paducah in 2020

N 2020, PADUCAH IS AN ATTRACTIVE, safe, well-maintained city with leaders that have a vision and a can-do attitude. Local government is a very effective county-wide government. The diversified economy includes good jobs in the river industry, high tech, information data processing, byproduct recovery from waste at the plants in our area, distribution businesses, private entrepreneurs, healthcare, retail, finance and tourism The people are friendly, happy, and working together as a team to achieve the best for the community. All the citizens are a contributing, vital part of the community.

A proactive plan is in place to maintain, build, and rebuild all needed infrastructure to provide for job growth and our citizens’ needs. As we look around Paducah we see the outer loop is nearing completion, which has pushed the airport facility to double in size and a new distribution park to be developed adjacent.

The old Cairo Road, now a part of the outer loop, is the truck route to I-24 and a future attractive site for businesses and housing. The road extends on to the 8th and 10th Street distribution businesses, which have enlarged, and others have been added because of the improvement in that area.

The Olivet Church Road bridge is complete, and the industrial park is almost full. The Information Age Park is 95% full providing over 10,000 jobs, and on or near the site of the USEC Gaseous Diffusion Plant are five major recovery industries employing 1,000 people.

Paducah is still the hub of the inland waterways. Paducah’s oldest industry is still one of the best. Paducah is an entrepreneur center encouraging new business startups. The Dippin’ Dot’s success story is repeated many times over.

Downtown Paducah is a mecca for tourists and citizens alike. It is the cultural arts center for the region. Paducah is hosting the 36th annual AQS International Quilt Show at the Convention Center located on the Ohio River. This center is also the location for many exhibitions and trade shows and regional conventions. The murals, the Market House Museum, the Carson Center Performing Arts Center, the River Heritage Museum, Market House Theatre, enlarged Yeiser Art Center and National Quilt Museum are magnets for tourists and citizens to the downtown.

There is a Paducah Queen docked at the riverfront for tours and dinner cruises. A ten-story condo building on the river is complete and has added downtown living. A parking garage and new uses for the Columbia Theater are added.

Education is still a top priority for the community. The education of every citizen to his/her highest potential is a goal. Led by local leaders working with the leaders of Paducah Community College, West Kentucky Technical College, Murray State and the University of Kentucky, every student can pursue the education he desires in Paducah. The education level of Paducah’s citizens is now ranked in the top 15 nationally. This includes percentage of high school and college graduates. Our goal is to be in the top 5 in the nation. The community of Paducah is dedicated to lifelong learning for all of its citizens.

The park system is county-wide and includes some wonderful facilities to relax, play, walk, picnic, or meet at one of the family recreation centers. A beautiful walk to the riverfront from Noble Park or from the Southside’s newly developed park along Island Creek, are great places for exercise and family fun.

Paducah is a community that shows trust and respect for all citizens. There is a spirit of harmony and unity of purpose. This does not mean that there are not different views on many issues, but they are discussed openly, working toward a win/win solution. Local government leaders in 2020 believe in being open with all citizens. It is important for everyone to know what is being discussed, what the pros and cons are and what actions are being considered. Therefore, a website is provided to give the citizens regular updates and a way for them to get additional information or to express an opinion. Citizens can now vote on issues through the Internet.

There are many opportunities for Paducahans to volunteer to make their community better. Historically they are generous with their time, energy, and financial resources. For example the Community Foundation now has $50 million in endowed funds meeting the needs of the non-profit sector and to continue to help serve our community’s unmet needs.

In 2020, Paducah shows that it has been working to build a strong community, and the leaders know they must continue to work to be prepared to solve any problem and to take advantage of every opportunity.

Slim’s Frenchtown Mercantile

Shop small and drop by Slim’s Frenchtown Mercantile. We have the perfect gift for your Valentine! We are proud to carry Normal Brand clothing, Olivina and Paddywax apothecary, Hazel Village, Baby Lit Primers, Jack Rabbit Creations for children, home goods, and much more. Located next to Frenchtown Station.

125 N. 11th Street slimsfrenchtownmercantile.com

270-557-7929

Chantillies Salon

We can rock your color at Chantillies! From highlights to hair color, we’re here to give you a look you’ll love. Our stylists are ready to give you edgy or natural color and fabulous styles. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see beautiful results. For an appointment, text us at 270.556.7218 or call 270.444.7502.

Gayle Kaler, Owner

540 North 32nd Street

270.444.7502

Frenchtown Station

Where timeless character meets 21st century cool. Our 1930’sera restored filling station is home to unique finds – antique and vintage, architectural and industrial, reclaimed and repurposed – for home, garden, and workspace. We also carry a wonderful line of Paddywax candles, diffusers, and an amazing lavender bar!

11th and Jefferson • 270.577.7661 frenchtownstation.com

Chantillies Salon

Start the new year in style! Let Chantillies’ newest nail technician elevate your look in 2020. Chantillies welcomes Erica Perkins to our team of style professionals. Erica is now accepting appointments and is ready to take you from drab to fab and give your nails the pizazz they deserve. Call today and for your personal style experience.

540 North 32nd Street 270-444-7502

Dry Ground Brewing Company

Located in Paducah’s landmark Coke Plant, Dry Ground Brewing offers a variety of house-brewed craft beer and a comfortable outdoor beer garden with a cozy fire pit. Unique events, weekly trivia, and local musical performances are always on tap. Monday-Thursday 3-11 PM, Friday 2-12 AM, Saturday Noon – 12 AM, Sunday 1-9 PM.

3121 Broadway St • 270.201.2096 drygroundbrewing.com

Hajimari

For an outstanding culinary experience in a casual atmosphere, gather with family and friends at The Hajimari. This family owned and operated restaurant, located in the ground floor of The Ritz, is open for lunch and dinner. Fresh sushi, juicy steaks, and more. Join us Wednesday’s for half price wine!

2201 Broadway 270-534-5955