I have visited eastern Kentucky for many years and while this piece may have been correct 30 years ago, it seems wrong now
There has been dramatic change in the hollows off the roads. The roads them selves are much much different.
there are good 4 lane roads into the heart of the country.
Hazard was squeezed between the ridges in a narrow valley. Today a good road by passes the town and there is major, prosperous expansion.
Up US 23, the little towns have expanded up the 4 lane, very good road to the point they almost come together.
I have been up several hollows for quite a long way and find good solidly built and well maintained homes. There are of course trailers but they are in far better condition than years ago.
I’ve traveled about 15 miles off the hiway up a steadily narrowing hollow and up a ridge to a shop that rebuilds and exports Cat front end loaders. He gets his customers off the internet.
I’m certain there are still poor folks, but the change in my life time is truly remarkable.