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Westgate Crane Technology Park reports nearly 20% employment growth, payroll jump since 2022
Summary
A Westgate update reported employment at Crane Technology Park rose from about 850 to 1,013 (nearly 20%) between 2022 and 2024 and annual payroll increased from $67 million to $92 million; infrastructure projects and site developments were outlined, with some federal funding prospects uncertain.
County leaders heard an economic development update May 13 that said employment at Westgate Crane Technology Park increased by nearly 20% between 2022 and 2024 and that payroll rose more than 37% over the same period.
The report matters because rapid employment and payroll growth at a local tech park can affect county tax revenues, workforce needs and infrastructure planning; presenters also outlined water, wastewater and site-preparation work needed to support further growth.
Kent Parisian, who delivered the Westgate update, said employment grew from roughly 850 workers in 2022 to about 1,013 in 2024, and that total annual payroll rose from $67,000,000 to $92,000,000 in 2024. Parisian reported a Kratos groundbreaking March 18 and said Omentum’s project remains forthcoming. He said Project Prometheus and Acme Munitions Campus were awarded to Greene County but that all three counties would see benefits.
Parisian described ongoing design work for water and wastewater extensions tied to Kratos and Omentum, with bid advertising expected by July and full design for another wastewater/water-capacity upgrade expected by year end and construction contingent on funding availability in spring 2026. He said an anticipated federal funding lead from Senator Young’s office fell through when federal budget estimates revealed a $2 billion shortfall; county staff will continue pursuing support from Senator Young and Congressman Messmer.
Parisian also summarized a legislative item (Senate Bill 465) that did not secure an increase to $250,000 per CTP because of state budget shortfalls, calling it a possibility for a later session if estimates change. He said new gateway signage funded by a grant to the Daviess County Economic Development Corporation is being installed around the park. No formal county action was taken; the item was an informational update.
