lives of Laurel County residents . Thompson said 21 existing businesses relocated as well as 5 existing businesses expanded on their current property . Four new industrial buildings were added in 2022 with inquiries by new businesses coming in daily .
“ Requests continued all year for available buildings for new and expanding companies who would like to locate in London ," Thompson said . " Despite low available workforce numbers here and across the nation , we were able to successfully draw necessary workers from surrounding counties with our easily accessible highways .”
The addition of a new industrial park in the Lily community further supports the growth of the county , bringing even more new jobs to the area . The great outdoors is always a lure for adventure seekers and Laurel County didn ' t disappoint . Plans for two RV parks were announced with the groundwork already underway in 2023 . A new resort lodge was also announced , adding to the offerings for those living or visiting the area . The newest industrial park brings the county ' s total to 9 , with each offering diverse services / business opportunities A long vacant golf club was purchased and announced its grand reopening would occur in 2023 . Crooked Creek , a renowned golf course with a clubhouse , pool and tennis courts , hosted numerous golf tournaments and , once opened to the public , was a large tourist draw .
Adventure lovers also have a heyday in Laurel County with hiking trails in Levi Jackson Park and the Daniel Boone National Forest . The Sheltowee Trail near Laurel Lake has numerous nature trails that feature waterfalls and highlights the beauty of nature at its best .
Laurel Lake draws water lovers of all ages and tastes , from the beach with swimming at the Spillway by the Laurel River Dam to Holly Bay Marina with privately owned and rental boats and pontoons for every boater ' s desire . A restaurant and store further offset the accommodations for boaters and campers . Holly Bay also offers a campground for remote tent campers as well as spots with utility hookups for those wishing to enjoy the great outdoors with a bit more modern accommodations . Two campgrounds , White Oak and Grove , offers a boat-in only access for those wishing to slip away for a more remote area .
The second marina on Laurel Lake , Grove Marina , also has rentals for pontoons , houseboat and boat slips as well as a store / deli and lodge and cabin rentals .
Laurel Lake also offers several boat ramps . Marsh Branch , Craigs Creek and Hightop boat ramps are popular spots for fishers and boaters to launch for their day of fun on the water .
POPULATION DEMOGRAPHICS BY RACE AND GENDER
Total |
Total Population |
62,561 |
White |
96.8 % |
Hispanic or Latino |
1.6 % |
Black or African Am . |
0.9 % |
Two or More Races . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.3 % |
Asian |
0.6 % |
American Indian |
0.4 % |
SOURCE : WWW . CENSUS . GOV
For those feeling safer on solid ground , Laurel County also offers a variety of activities .
Wildcat Off-Road Adventures offers trails and activities for Jeep-ers and ATV enthusiasts , including concerts , fireworks and contests . Camping areas are also available for those wishing to spend more time in the unique setting .
If the roar of engines sends excitement down your spine , the London Dragway offers spring , summer and fall sanctioned races every weekend . For motorcyclists , the Wildcat Harley Davidson dealership offers special events and fundraising rides throughout the year .
No matter your interests , Laurel County offers a diverse selection to meet your every need , continually adding attractions , events and activities to enhance the community and highlight its people and progress .