Old jail to be renovated, turned into tourist destination

JACKSON, Ky. – An eastern Kentucky organization will receive more than $300,000 to renovate a historic site to promote tourism, Gov. Andy Beshear said.

The Breathitt County Museum Board plans to use the grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission to turn a former jail in downtown Jackson into a tourist destination where local artisans and entrepreneurs sell arts and crafts, officials said.

“This project will help build a stronger economic foundation, drawing on Appalachia’s unique heritage to create real opportunity in Breathitt County,” Beshear said in a statement.

Funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission is aimed at strengthening the industry and building a stronger economic future in distressed areas. The Department for Local Government administers the funding.

Officials said the centre will also provide visitors with information about other local businesses and attractions. The site is expected to attract about 5,200 visitors annually.