Kentucky Chamber cuts the ribbon on the "Front Door to Frankfort"

The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce’s newly renovated and expanded facility is officially open for business. On Tuesday, April 20, Chamber leaders, Gov. Steve Beshear and more than 100 Kentucky business leaders gathered for the ribbon cutting and dedication of the building that will serve as the business community’s “front door to Frankfort.”

“In 2006, the Chamber’s board of directors realized a need to expand the existing headquarters,” said 2010 Chairman Bill Jones, of U.S. Bank. “There was no room for staff growth, the technology was outdated, and there was very limited meeting space. I’m glad to say that these issues are now in the past.”

The $3.2 million facility, funded, in large part, by donations and sponsorships from members is now 17,000 square feet – a 70 percent increase in space. In addition to cutting-edge technology, the building also features art pieces commissioned by Kentucky artists.

“We hope that the Kentucky Chamber’s new headquarters here in Frankfort reflects our optimism and bold direction, and will serve as a symbol of a bright future for Kentucky’s business community,” said Jones.

Gray Construction has been a long-time member of the Kentucky Chamber and was instrumental in the planning of this new addition. Howard Gray is a former chair of the Kentucky Chamber’s board of directors. Jill Wilson, Gray’s Vice President, Communications & Marketing currently serves on the Chamber’s board of directors.

Those cutting the ribbon included:

Mary Jean Riley (North American Stainless), Wayne Martin (Gray Kentucky Television, Inc.), Jill Wilson (Gray Construction), Dave Adkisson (KY Chamber), Bill Jones (US Bank), Governor Steve Beshear, Joan Coleman (formerly with AT&T Kentucky), Mary Pat Regan (AT&T Kentucky), Darby Turner (Greenbaum, Doll & McDonald).