Lehigh Hanson is to invest more than $600 million to modernise and expand its cement plant in Mitchell, Indiana.
The company says the project will increase production capacity while also reducing energy usage and emissions per tonnes of cement produced.
Jon Morrish, Lehigh's CEO, says: “The modernisation of the Mitchell plant will enable us to produce cement more efficiently and sustainably through the use of state of the art technology and the latest in environmental controls and systems. The capabilities of the new plant will enable us to better serve our existing customer base in the Midwest while also expanding our reach in this growing market.”
The project is expected to provide:
- Approximately 50 newly created full-time jobs at the plant
- Over 1,000 construction positions during the approximate four-year project span
- Enhanced technical training and growth opportunities for plant employees
- Improved environmental performance and a reduction in energy usage while increasing cement production capacity
- State-of-the-art technology to improve operating efficiencies
- During the past several years, Lehigh Hanson has worked with local and state officials to develop increased infrastructure surrounding the plant, which will benefit the expanded operation. This includes a road connecting the plant to IN-37, alleviating truck congestion from the centre of town. Overall logistics will also change to accommodate additional rail activity to handle increased cement shipments from the plant.
Lehigh is working with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management to obtain the required air permits and anticipates the permitting process to be completed in the summer of 2019. The company is also working with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation regarding available business incentives. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2020 and completion of the new plant is anticipated by the end of 2022.
Additionally, Lehigh will establish a community advisory panel for local leaders and residents to learn more about the expansion. A public open house celebrating the Bicentennial of Lawrence County and the future plant modernisation is scheduled for 28 July, between noon and 5.00 pm.
