Nucor Corporation has selected Mason County in West Virginia for its nearly $2.7 billion worth new sheet mill that will produce three million tons of steel per annum.

According to the American steel production company, the West Virginia location on the Ohio River offers it key advantages in transportation and logistics. Apart from that, the location is said to give Nucor a stronger ability to cater to customers across the Midwest and Northeast.

The new sheet mill in West Virginia, once fully operational, will employ nearly 800 people in full-time roles.

Leon Topalian — President and CEO of Nucor said: “Following a thorough process to determine the right location for our state-of-the-art, greenfield sheet mill, we are thrilled to make this significant investment in West Virginia and enhance our presence in this important region.

“Our new sheet mill in Mason County will have unmatched capabilities that will enable the continued expansion of high-quality, low carbon steels, building on our industry-leading offerings. We are pleased to create hundreds of new, high-paying jobs, and position West Virginia as a leader in clean steel production.”

The new Nucor sheet mill is expected to manufacture 84inch sheet products. It will have a 76inch tandem cold mill as well as a couple of galvanizing lines.

According to Nucor, galvanizing capabilities at the sheet mill will include an advanced high-end automotive line for full inspection and a construction-grade line.

Pending permit and regulatory approvals, the steel production company expects construction to take a couple of years.

Nucor said that it is also considering additional sites in Northern West Virginia for a transload and processing facility.

John Farris — Nucor Steel West Virginia Vice President and General Manager said: “We look forward to breaking ground in Mason County and partnering with colleges and universities on workforce development programs, supporting veterans’ organizations and local food pantries, and working with opioid recovery programs that will provide meaningful pathways to jobs.”

  John Farris, Leon Topalian, Mason County, Nucor, Steel industry news, USA, West Virginia