Texas Gas Transmission, LLC (“Texas Gas”), a subsidiary of Boardwalk Pipelines, LP and a leader in reliable energy infrastructure, is announcing a non-binding Open Season for the Borealis Natural Gas Pipeline Expansion Project (“Borealis” or “Borealis Project”). This transformative project aims to bolster America’s energy future by tapping into the abundant Marcellus and Utica shale gas reserves, delivering reliable and affordable natural gas to meet the growing energy demand across our expansive footprint—from Ohio to Louisiana.

Project Overview

The Borealis Project enhances Texas Gas’ existing 5,975-mile pipeline network by connecting prolific Marcellus and Utica supply basins with growing demand markets. By utilizing the existing Texas Gas footprint and minimizing the need to construct new facilities, Borealis offers a streamlined, efficient expansion to create up to 2 Bcf/d of incremental transportation to markets from Ohio to Louisiana.

Texas Gas will also entertain bids to extend further upstream, connecting to Utica and Marcellus supply sources and enhancing access to these reserves. Together, these efforts ensure a dependable incremental flow of natural gas to fuel electric utilities, independent power producers, local distribution companies, producers, LNG exporters, industrials and data centers across our service territory.

“This project strengthens the link between some of America’s most abundant energy reserves and the communities and industries that rely on them every day,” said President and CEO, Scott Hallam. “It reflects Boardwalk’s ongoing commitment to meeting demand through innovative infrastructure solutions that create long-term value and meaningful impact.”

Key Benefits for Our Customers

• Reliable Energy for a Growing Nation: Borealis delivers a steady, reliable supply—ideal for electric utilities powering communities, independent power producers meeting peak demand, local distribution companies supplying residential, commercial and industrial end-users, producers seeking market access, data centers driving the digital economy, and LNG exporters supplying affordable energy around the globe.
• Cost-Effective Solution: Leveraging Texas Gas’ existing footprint, Borealis minimizes costs and construction, which helps maximize value for shippers.
• Critical Infrastructure: Borealis meets America’s surging energy demand with a timely and resilient solution that expands Texas Gas’ ability to provide reliable and robust service.

Non-Binding Open Season Details

Texas Gas invites interested parties to participate in this non-binding Open Season to express interest in firm transportation capacity on the Borealis Project. This process adheres to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission guidelines for interstate pipelines, ensuring transparency and equal opportunity.

• Open Season Period: Begins April 1, 2025, and ends at 5:00 PM CT on April 30, 2025.
• Capacity Offered: Up to 2.0 Bcf/d of firm transportation service.
• Term: 20-year preferred term, other terms may be considered.
• Submission Process and Confidentiality Agreement: Participation in this non-binding Open Season will be considered confirmed upon the execution of a Confidentiality Agreement (“CA”). Additional project information, including proposed rates and terms, will be provided upon execution. To request a CA, please reach out to one of the contacts listed below.

Next Steps

Following this non-binding Open Season, Texas Gas will engage in further discussions with all participants who have executed a CA and may proceed to binding commitments.

Contact Us

For inquiries, to request a CA, or for additional information, please contact any of the following:

• Julianna Loucks, Director Business Development
  Phone: (270) 688-6942
  Email: julianna.loucks@bwpipelines.com
• Anthony Saputo, Manager Business Development
  Phone: (713) 479-8026
  Email: anthony.saputo@bwpipelines.com
• Shelley Frisby, Senior Vice President Business Development
  Phone: (713) 479-8615
  Email: shelley.frisby@bwpipelines.com

This media release was written and provided by our partners at Boardwalk Pipelines.

• One $500 Grand Prize
• Five $100 Cash Prizes

Welcome to the first edition of The GOEDC Scoop: your monthly update from the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation! Each month, we’ll bring you the top highlights from our work across the community, important upcoming events and deadlines, and a look at what’s on the horizon for economic growth in Owensboro.

Top 3 from April 2025

Philip Morris Invests in Owensboro’s Swedish Match Facility with $232M Expansion
READ MORE

GOEDC Launches Elevate Owensboro Offering Mentorships for Small Businesses
READ MORE

Five Inmates Graduate from Reentry Success Program at Daviess County Detention Center
READ MORE

Mark Your Calendars

May 7 – Entrepreneur Morning Meetup

Following the success of its first event, the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is excited to announce its next Entrepreneur Morning Meetup on Wednesday, May 7, at 7:30 AM at Red Swing Coffee’s West Side location. The Entrepreneur Morning Meetup series is designed to connect aspiring entrepreneurs, seasoned business owners, and everyone in between. Attendees have the opportunity to network, share ideas, and hear directly from GOEDC about programs and resources designed to support small businesses in Owensboro and Daviess County.
REGISTER NOW

May 9 – Bridging the Workforce Gap – Breaking Barriers to Employment

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) and the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce are partnering to host Bridging the Workforce Gap: Breaking Barriers to Employment on Friday, May 9 at 9:00 a.m. The event will be held at the Chamber of Commerce in the third-floor conference room, located at 200 East Third Street and is open to the public. This special coffee event will feature Nicki Stewart, Workforce Development Manager with Kentucky VALOR, and Sarah McLaughlin, Reentry and Employment Services Navigator with the Kentucky Office of Adult Education.
RSVP to chamber@owensboro.com

May 16 – Elevate Owensboro Application Deadline 

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is excited to announce the launch of Elevate Owensboro, a new mentoring initiative aimed at pairing local entrepreneurs, small business owners, and innovators with long-time business leaders to help them be successful. The program will officially kick off its first coaching cycle on July 1, 2025, following the close of applications on May 16 and match announcements on June 13.
LEARN MORE

May 20 – Marketing on Tap: Learn how to use AI to *Draft* Better Content

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC), the Kentucky Small Business Development Center (KY SBDC), Wonder Boy Media, and The Brew Bridge are teaming up to host Marketing on Tap: Learn How to Use AI to Draft Better Content, a hands-on workshop aimed at helping small business owners embrace AI tools to improve their marketing. The event will be held on Tuesday, May 20, from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM at The Brew Bridge, Owensboro’s local taproom. Tickets will go on sale Monday, May 5, at 8 a.m. for $10 and include training, lunch, and all materials.
GET TICKETS

May 22 – Downtown Small Biz Crawl

Downtown Owensboro Inc., in partnership with GOEDC and the City of Owensboro, is launching the first-ever Downtown Small Biz Crawl on Thursday, May 22. The event encourages the community to shop, dine, and explore downtown while supporting local businesses, with chances to win big prizes for participating.
More info coming soon! 

Available Resources

Small Business Subsidy Program
The City of Owensboro and Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation have developed the Downtown Incentive Program to enhance economic growth by filling vacancies in downtown Owensboro, KY. The program offers rent subsidies or a 50/50 match for building façade improvements to support new or expanding businesses.

Incentives

Available Jobs

Thanks for reading our first GOEDC Scoop! Do you have a suggestion for a way to make this better? Let us know! Email your suggestions to saldridge@owensboro.com. 

Cheers,

Your friends at the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC), the Kentucky Small Business Development Center (KY SBDC), Wonder Boy Media, and The Brew Bridge are teaming up to host Marketing on Tap: Learn How to Use AI to Draft Better Content, a hands-on workshop aimed at helping small business owners embrace AI tools to improve their marketing.

The event will be held on Tuesday, May 20, from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM at The Brew Bridge, Owensboro’s local taproom. Tickets will go on sale Monday, May 5, at 8 a.m. for $10 and include training, lunch, and all materials.

“Understanding and adopting AI is no longer optional for small businesses, it’s imperative,” said Claude Bacon, President & CEO of GOEDC. “We’re excited to host an event that not only teaches practical tools but does so in a fun, community-centered space. Owensboro’s small business owners are creative, and this gives them another edge.”

The workshop kicks off with an introduction to AI from Jody Hulsey, Center Director & Business Coach with the KY SBDC, followed by a panel of local small business owners already using AI in their marketing strategies.

“AI doesn’t have to be intimidating,” said Hulsey. “This training is all about helping people see how tools like ChatGPT can simplify what they’re already doing, making content creation faster, smarter, and more effective.”

After a catered lunch from The Brew Bridge, attendees will take part in a hands-on ChatGPT training led by Drew Hardesty, President at Wonder Boy Media.

“We use AI every day to help streamline our creative process, and we’re excited to share what’s working,” said Hardesty. “Whether you’re drafting social posts, emails, or video content, there are smart ways to use these tools without losing your brand’s voice.”

The day wraps with a tasting hosted by The Brew Bridge and open networking. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged. Tickets are on sale now https://marketingontap.eventbrite.com.

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

About the Kentucky Small Business Development Center

The Kentucky Small Business Development Center has been assisting the Commonwealth’s small business community for over 40 years. With centers statewide and experienced business coaches, the Kentucky SBDC provides no-cost, confidential business coaching services to existing and start-up businesses.

Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of SBA. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested in advance.

About Wonder Boy Media

Wonder Boy Media is a full-service creative agency based in Owensboro, Kentucky, specializing in storytelling through film, design, and digital strategy. With a mission to help brands connect with their audiences in meaningful ways, Wonder Boy blends creativity with innovation to bring bold ideas to life.

About The Brew Bridge

The Brew Bridge is Owensboro’s first brewery and taproom, offering craft beer brewed in-house, a full kitchen, and a laid-back community atmosphere. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a welcoming local spot, The Brew Bridge delivers great food, unique brews, and a place to gather.

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) and the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce are partnering to host Bridging the Workforce Gap: Breaking Barriers to Employment on Friday, May 9 at 9:00 a.m. The event will be held at the Chamber of Commerce in the third-floor conference room, located at 200 East Third Street and is open to the public.

This special coffee event will feature Nicki Stewart, Workforce Development Manager with Kentucky VALOR, and Sarah McLaughlin, Reentry and Employment Services Navigator with the Kentucky Office of Adult Education. Kentucky VALOR (Veterans Accelerated Licensure Occupational Recruitment) focuses on helping military veterans transition into civilian careers through expedited licensure pathways and strong employer partnerships. The Kentucky Office of Adult Education, meanwhile, supports adults, including second-chance employees, in connection with education, workforce training, and employment opportunities across the state.

The conversation will highlight strategies for breaking down barriers to employment, especially for veterans, justice-involved individuals, and other underrepresented populations in the workforce.

“Workforce can be challenging. This event is about demonstrating that talent exists right here in our community. Veterans, second-chance workers, and others are ready to contribute. We just need to recognize and support the pathways that get them into the workforce,” said Jamie Johnson, Director of Workforce Development, Small Business, and Entrepreneurship at GOEDC.

Ashtin Warren, Director of Talent Programs at the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, added, “This event offers employers a fresh approach to tackling workforce challenges. By linking local businesses with motivated individuals who are ready to contribute, we’re doing more than addressing staffing needs—we’re investing in the strength and resilience of our community.”

Complimentary coffee will be served. Seating is limited, and attendees are encouraged to RSVP by emailing Chamber@Owensboro.com.

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

About the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce provides leadership, advocacy, and member services that foster growth and economic prosperity for our region.

Philip Morris International is making waves in Greater Owensboro—and around the world—with the $232 million expansion of its Swedish Match facility, solidifying the city’s role as a key hub in the company’s global operations.

Slated for completion by the end of June, the expansion is expected to bring 450 new jobs to Owensboro-Daviess County and create a $277 million annual economic impact, along with 410 indirect jobs across Kentucky.

During a recent visit, Stacey Kennedy, President of the Americas Region and CEO of U.S. Business at Philip Morris International, praised the local team and their role in the success of Zyn, the tobacco-free nicotine pouch now synonymous with the smoke-free market.

“It’s the flagship factory for us, not just in the United States, but the whole world,” Kennedy said. “We’ve got the best engineers, the best quality experts, the best technicians, the best men and women running those lines… and they’re proud to represent the No. 1 smoke-free product in America.”

Owensboro’s workforce is not only building Zyn at scale—it’s setting the standard. The knowledge and expertise developed here will be transferred to future Philip Morris facilities, including a new site in Colorado.

This commitment to American manufacturing—and to Owensboro specifically—underscores why the city continues to attract innovative, world-class industry leaders.

“We wanted to first and foremost expand our flagship facility… because we’re really committed to American manufacturing of our consumables and jobs for American men and women,” Kennedy added.

The expansion highlights both Philip Morris International’s confidence in Owensboro-Daviess County and the community’s unmatched talent pool in advanced manufacturing.

“I couldn’t be more optimistic about our future,” Kennedy said. “These products are making a real difference in the lives of smokers and their family and friends.”

News Source: Messenger-Inquirer
Photo Source: BusinessWire

The Daviess County Detention Center recently celebrated a milestone in local workforce and reentry development: the graduation of five inmates from the Reentry Success Program, including two women who earned their workforce readiness certificates alongside their peers. This program provides incarcerated individuals with industry-recognized skills and credentials to help them successfully reenter the workforce and the community after release.

“This program is designed to help you build new skills, gain confidence, and prepare for the next chapter in your life,” said Claude Bacon, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC), during the graduation ceremony. “It’s a chance to prove to yourself that you are more than your past mistakes, and that you have the ability to succeed in the world outside these walls.”

Graduates earned the Enhanced Operator I and Workforce Readiness Certificates through Owensboro Community & Technical College’s (OCTC) FlexTrain platform. Course topics include hand and power tools, lean operations, workplace safety, problem solving, and workplace principles — all aligned with local employer needs.

The ceremony also welcomed the next five inmates who have been accepted into the program. These individuals attended the event to hear directly from program partners and past participants, gaining insight into the opportunity ahead.

“You’ve already made it to this point, and this is your chance to show the world what you’re truly capable of,” Bacon told the audience. “The effort you put in now will pay off — not just for you, but for your family and the community that is waiting to welcome you back.”

The Reentry Success Program is a collaboration between GOEDC, OCTC, the Daviess County Detention Center, the City of Owensboro, the Daviess County Fiscal Court, and the Kentucky Department of Corrections Division of Reentry Services. It’s designed to close workforce gaps while helping individuals rebuild their lives through access to meaningful employment.

Community leaders offered their support at the ceremony, with remarks from Judge Executive Charlie Castlen, Mayor Tom Watson, Commissioner Sharon NeSmith, Dr. Ryan Hall (OCTC), Sarah McLaughlin and Mike Uptegraff (Kentucky Education & Labor Cabinet), and Daviess County Jailer Art Maglinger.

“This is not just about finding a job — it’s about reclaiming your life and your future,” Bacon emphasized. “Every step you take in this program is a step toward a fresh start. Remember that change takes time, but the dedication you show today will open doors tomorrow.”

More than 50 inmates have completed the program so far, with additional cohorts in progress. The initiative continues to serve as a powerful tool for second chances — transforming lives, families, and the regional workforce.