Expansion strengthens Kentucky’s inland waterways leadership and supports long-term growth in maritime logistics
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Dec. 15, 2025) — Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear today announced that Hines Furlong Line (HFL) will expand its operations in Paducah, investing nearly $11 million in McCracken County and creating 50 new, well-paying jobs as the company continues to grow and prepare for future expansion.
“One of Kentucky’s greatest competitive advantages is our natural resources and inland waterways, which make our maritime transportation and logistics sector among the strongest in the nation,” said Governor Andy Beshear. “When companies like Hines Furlong Line reinvest in their operations and workforce, it drives economic growth across the commonwealth. This project is a major win for Western Kentucky, bringing 50 quality jobs and reinforcing Paducah’s role as a leader in inland river transportation.”
To support increased staffing and operational efficiency, Hines Furlong Line will construct a new 15,000-square-foot building at its Paducah Operations Center. The expansion will provide additional office space while significantly enhancing workforce development and employee amenities. The company will also renovate approximately 7,000 square feet of its existing facility to include a state-of-the-art mariner training center and an employee gym.
Once completed, the project will more than triple the operational footprint of the Paducah facility, supporting safety training, professional development and long-term workforce retention. Construction is expected to be completed in fall 2026.
“This investment marks an important step in positioning Hines Furlong Line for our next phase of growth,” said Kent Furlong, President and Founder of Hines Furlong Line. “The partnership between the Commonwealth of Kentucky and our local leaders has been essential in making this expansion possible. We’re proud to invest in facilities, training and operational capabilities that will support our team, our customers and Kentucky’s economy for years to come.”
Hines Furlong Line is a family-owned company with more than five generations of experience in the inland river transportation industry. Founded in 2004 by Kent E. Furlong, the grandson of river industry pioneer James G. Hines, the company builds on over a century of family involvement in U.S. inland waterways. Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, HFL provides comprehensive marine transportation and logistics services across the inland river system and operates a modern fleet of towboats and tank barges.
Paducah serves as a key operational hub for HFL, supporting vessel management, logistics and maintenance activities. The company recently announced plans to acquire Campbell Transportation Co.’s River Division, a strategic move that will significantly expand HFL’s operational reach along the full length of the Ohio River.
Paducah Mayor George Bray praised the expansion and its local impact. “Hines Furlong Line’s investment represents a tremendous opportunity for Paducah and McCracken County,” Bray said. “This project reinforces Paducah’s position as a national leader in inland waterways. As a family-owned company, HFL reflects the values of innovation, hard work and commitment that define our community, and we are proud to support their continued growth here.”
Bruce Wilcox, President and CEO of Greater Paducah Economic Development, emphasized the project’s strategic importance. “This investment underscores Hines Furlong Line’s long-term commitment to Paducah as a strategic partner in inland waterway transportation,” Wilcox said. “The expansion strengthens Paducah’s maritime industry presence while aligning with our broader community development goals. We’re excited to see a family-owned company continue to succeed and invest in our region.”
For more information on Hines Furlong Line, visit hinesfurlongline.com.
A detailed community profile for McCracken County, Kentucky, is available online.
Image Credit: Hines Furlong
