Knox County Commissioners Receive Update on Development Projects

Economic development CEO Chris Pfaff covers infrastructure, housing, grants, and Amazon's new distribution center

Mar. 18, 2026 at 4:24pm

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Knox County Economic Development CEO Chris Pfaff provided county commissioners with a comprehensive update on various development projects and initiatives across the region, including progress on READI infrastructure, new housing construction, grant opportunities, and the upcoming Amazon last-mile distribution center.

Why it matters

The update highlights the ongoing economic and community development efforts in Knox County, which aim to attract new businesses, residents, and investment to the area through infrastructure improvements, housing expansion, and targeted marketing campaigns.

The details

Pfaff reported that the final two READI One projects, including a sewer line along Elkhorn Road and the Sievers Road extension, as well as a water line project along Keller Road, are actively underway and expected to be completed by summer 2026. He also noted that all READI 2.0 project submissions are under state review, with decisions expected within 2-3 weeks. Pfaff provided updates on a statewide arts and culture grant opportunity, with Vincennes University and the Indiana Military Museum preparing proposals. On housing, he shared that construction is progressing on the Bierhaus Flats development, with the first 24 units expected to be available by June 2026. Pfaff also discussed the Opportunity Knox campaign, which includes advertising and billboards to target Illinois commuters who may consider relocating to Knox County. Finally, he gave an update on the Amazon last-mile distribution center project, noting the company's rapid construction timeline and the county's work on a sewer line extension to support the facility.

  • The final two READI One projects are expected to be completed by summer 2026.
  • READI 2.0 project decisions are expected within 2-3 weeks.
  • The first 24 units of the Bierhaus Flats development are expected to be available by June 2026.

The players

Chris Pfaff

The CEO of Knox County Economic Development, who provided the update to county commissioners.

Vincennes University

An organization preparing a proposal for a statewide arts and culture grant to expand The Red Skelton Museum.

Indiana Military Museum

An organization preparing a proposal for a statewide arts and culture grant.

Compass Construction

An Indianapolis-based company serving as the general contractor for the Amazon last-mile distribution center project.

David Green

The site supervisor for the Amazon last-mile distribution center project.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The county is expected to hear back from the state on READI 2.0 project approvals or requests for additional information within the next 2-3 weeks.

The takeaway

The update from Knox County Economic Development highlights the ongoing efforts to drive economic growth, attract new residents and businesses, and improve the overall quality of life in the region through strategic infrastructure investments, housing development, and targeted marketing campaigns.