Economic Opportunities Flow with Louisville Pure Tap®

How’s this for an endorsement: “The water here is fantastic.” That statement from a national site selector goes right to the heart of why Louisville Water puts a focus on economic development. The professional was visiting Louisville to learn more about the region’s advantages for new businesses. Before the site selector knew anything about Louisville’s water quality or rates, he already knew the drinking water tasted good, and others had told him the same.

Louisville Water recently joined Greater Louisville Inc. (GLI), regional partners, and LG&E to host nine national site selectors from varied industries for an annual Familiarization “FAM” Tour. This two-day immersive tour included presentations from businesses and elected leaders plus tours and a look at the region’s advantages with water.

For its portion, Louisville Water highlighted the advantage of an abundant supply with the Ohio River as its source, the outstanding water quality that’s at the top of the list of North American utilities, and the tiered rate structure that’s a bonus for large water users. Louisville Water provides drinking water to many of the communities outside Louisville through partnerships with other utilities. That’s a big benefit for regional economic development, factoring in the BlueOval SK project in Hardin County and the expansion of bourbon distilleries in Nelson County. “The abundance of water and affordable housing is something you don’t find in California,” shared one site selector from southern California. “Your water and the infrastructure are an advantage,” said another selector.

Speaking of the water- to highlight the quality, supply, rates and infrastructure, Louisville Water’s Vice President of Communications & Marketing Kelley Dearing Smith led the selectors through a unique opportunity, a water tasting that featured Louisville Pure Tap® served alongside commercial bottled and spring waters. Paired with a selection of bourbons, the tasting gave site selectors a glimpse of the multi-million dollar annual investment into maintaining infrastructure, the rich history of water quality, and the fanatic attention to taste that makes Louisville Water a standout in the drinking water sector. “I’ve never looked at water like this,” one guest said. “There’s something special about the water here. I can see why you want to talk about it.”

More than 24,000 businesses rely on Louisville Water for their operations. We’re a key link to the region’s success. Dearing Smith said, “It’s important for site selectors to see what we can offer a new business. Water is often taken for granted on the consumer side, but when it comes to finding a location for a new facility, water is a critical piece.”

Louisville Water frequently offers water tastings to highlight its advantages. Learn more on how to schedule one for your group.