Simpson County recognized for economic development
Published 3:28 pm Thursday, July 16, 2026
“It’s always good to be number one.”
This is how Simpson County Judge-Executive Mason Barnes summed up his feelings on Thursday after it was announced that Simpson County had tied for first in a Site Selection Magazine list identifying the best counties in the United States for economic development projects per capita.
“This just goes to show that we are in a very desirable location for businesses and industries that are looking to expand their footprint or relocate their operation,” Barnes told the Daily News.
Simpson County tied with Williams County, North Dakota, for the number one spot among counties with at least 10,000 residents.
Gov. Andy Beshear’s office announced Simpson County’s placement in a press release.
Site Selection considered developments that were announced in communities between January 2025 and March 2026.
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A $391 million distribution center from Kroger and an expansion by Sumitomo Electric Wiring Systems totaling $17 million are among the eight projects announced last year that contributed to Simpson County’s place at the top of the list.
In Barnes’ view, the win means that businesses are beginning to learn that Kentucky and Simpson County are open for business.
“We’re still just doing the same thing we’ve been doing for the last eight to 10 years, being accommodating to folks that look to locate here,” he said. “We’re just doing the same thing we’ve been doing, and I guess words getting out (that) this is the place to be.”
Franklin Mayor Larry Dixon stated in an email that Franklin’s proximity to Nashville has contributed to economic growth, and he believes the growth will continue.
“Through our location and our workforce, we can continue being effective in recruiting and showcasing our community to future companies,” Dixon stated.
Simpson County placed ahead of Mercer County in the rankings. Jefferson County placed in the top 20 counties with the most projects regardless of population.
“This continued national recognition shows Kentucky is an economic leader and that we’re continuing to create great opportunities and new jobs for communities and families across the commonwealth,” Gov. Andy Beshear stated in the release.
About Jack Dobbs
Jack covers city government for the Daily News. Originally from Simpson County, he attended Western Kentucky University and graduated in 2022 with a degree in journalism.
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