LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – On Tuesday, Governor Andy Beshear unveiled an initiative to attract businesses, tourism and future residents to Kentucky.

“New Kentucky House” initiative is a marketing campaign that combines tourism and economic development with the goal of attracting new businesses, tourism and new residents to the Commonwealth.

It’s a new approach to highlighting the Bluegrass State, and the Governor is asking fellow Kentuckians to use social media to help promote the region.

“’Our new Kentucky home’ is a comprehensive marketing initiative that will reintroduce Kentucky to the rest of the world,” said Governor Beshear. “It will unite economic development workforce and tourism efforts, recognizing the important role quality of life plays in our state’s growth.”

The governor says the Commonwealth has broken tourism records in the last three years.

VisitLex President and CEO Mary Quinn Ramer says there is a strong intersection between tourism and economic development.

“If Lexington is a good place to visit, it will be a good place to work and play; if Lexington is a good place to work and play, it will be a good place to invest,” Quinn Ramer said.

Johnson County Judge-Executive Mark McKenzie praised the eastern Kentucky region’s strong connection to country music, ATV trails and natural beauty. He says his district is undergoing a transformation to attract tourists and talent.

“Our communities are now focused on improving infrastructure like roads, water and sewer service industrial facilities, and giga-capacity broadband—all of these investments will help with remote work opportunities as well as recruiting logistics companies from manufacturers,” McKenzie said.

Attracting a talented workforce and retaining them in the Commonwealth is part of the overall plan.

The governor is also asking fellow Kentucky residents to help support the idea.

“I ask Kentuckians to participate by sharing positive photos, videos and testimonials from our ‘new Kentucky home’ on social media using the hashtag #newkentuckyhome.”

Those who enter will have a chance to win a two-night stay at a Kentucky state park.

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