Kentucky AMLER Program Offers $29.5 Million, Free Application Help in Hazard

Eight weeks remain for Perry County organizations to pursue a share of $29.5 million in federal grant money, and the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet is bringing free application help to Hazard before the window closes.

The Abandoned Mine Lands Economic Revitalization program, known as AMLER, opened its 2026 application cycle on February 9 and accepts submissions through 4 p.m. ET on May 11. Division of Abandoned Mine Lands staff will offer in-person assistance at a Bulldog Lane address in Hazard on March 19, giving local groups a chance to sit down with program staff before committing to the full application process. Note that sources list the address as either 100 Bulldog Lane, Suite 100, or 101 Bulldog Lane, Suite 103; confirm the exact location at eec.ky.gov/NATURAL-RESOURCES/MINING/ABANDONED-MINE-LANDS before making the trip.

Gov. Andy Beshear has been actively urging coalfield communities to apply. "For a decade, this program has leveraged the strength of our Appalachian communities to develop innovative projects and economic opportunity for our people," Beshear said. "This year, that opportunity is being extended to coal communities in Western Kentucky, creating even more good-paying jobs across our commonwealth which our people deserve."

The program was established in 2016 by U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers and has awarded more than $280 million to Kentucky projects since its inception. Last year's awardees, announced by Beshear and Rogers at the SOAR Summit in August, received nearly $26 million. The 2026 cycle's expected $29.5 million represents the largest single-year allocation yet.

To qualify, a project must provide a clear economic benefit and demonstrate a connection to pre-law coal mining, defined as mining completed before May 18, 1982. Eligible project types span community wellness, education and job training, infrastructure, industrial development, tourism, and agriculture. This cycle marks the first time western Kentucky coal communities are formally included alongside eastern Kentucky applicants.

Beyond the Hazard session, staff will also hold in-person assistance in London on March 26 at 85 State Police Rd. and in Madisonville on April 16 at 625 Hospital Drive. Virtual appointments are available as well. Applications and scheduling are handled through the EEC's program page at eec.ky.gov/NATURAL-RESOURCES/MINING/ABANDONED-MINE-LANDS.