City of Owensboro & GOEDC Finalize Purchase Agreement for Massie Property

OWENSBORO, KY – August 19, 2025 – The City of Owensboro and the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) are moving forward with the acquisition of the Massie Property, a 121-acre tract poised to become the largest publicly controlled industrial site in the community. The purchase agreement for the site was signed in June 2025 and will go before the Owensboro Board of Commissioners for approval on August 19, 2025.

Located north of West Parrish Avenue and west of the U.S. 60 Bypass, the Massie Property has long been considered a key asset for future economic development. Originally totaling 184 acres when first optioned by GOEDC in 2022, the site was redefined in 2024 through a negotiated agreement between the City of Owensboro and current property owners, resulting in the current 121-acre tract.

In early 2023, Global Location Strategies (GLS), one of the nation’s leading site selection firms, conducted a comprehensive site analysis of Daviess County to identify the most promising locations for industrial development. Working with local utilities and stakeholders, GLS evaluated multiple properties (including sites already under consideration by GOEDC) and the Massie Property consistently ranked among those with the highest potential for cost-effective development and significant economic and job creation impact.

“This property represents a major step forward for Owensboro’s ability to attract and land transformative economic development projects,” said Claude Bacon, President and CEO of GOEDC. “We’re proud to partner with the City of Owensboro on this investment, and we’re excited about what it means for our community’s long-term competitiveness.”
Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson echoed that enthusiasm.

“The city’s investment in this project demonstrates our commitment to growth and readiness,” said Watson. “We know that having a prepared, publicly controlled industrial site is one of the most effective tools we have to bring new jobs and new opportunities to Owensboro.”

“Mayor Watson and City Commissioners have identified economic development as a top priority, and acquiring the Massie site opens the door for exciting new investment opportunities in Owensboro. I appreciate the support of and partnership with GOEDC throughout this process.” added City Manager Nate Pagan.

Upon closing, GOEDC and the City will begin strategic development of the site. Additional grant funding will be pursued through KPDI and other sources to support site
preparation and infrastructure improvements.