Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear announced continued momentum of the state’s metals sector as Kentucky Aluminum Processors celebrated the groundbreaking of its previously announced $40 million aluminum processing facility in Russellville that will create 75 quality Kentucky jobs.
“Each company that chooses to locate a new project here in the commonwealth brings with them quality jobs and opportunities for Kentuckians,” said Gov. Beshear. “Our manufacturing industry is one of the largest sectors in the state and continues to grow because of quality companies like Kentucky Aluminum Processors choosing and trusting what we have to offer. I want to thank their company leadership in this joint venture opportunity and look forward to their success in Logan County.”
The new facility, which will be operated as a joint venture between Tri-Arrows Aluminum (TAA) and Tennessee Aluminum Processors (TAP), will serve as an aluminum recycling facility that will process dross (metal containing by-product) and scrap material from TAA’s casting center at nearby Logan Aluminum. This process will produce molten aluminum and sows, which will be returned to the TAA recycling/casting facilities at Logan Aluminum and/or other customer facilities. The project will establish the facility on 37 acres to allow for the necessary equipment, storage, transportation and parking.
“Tri-Arrows Aluminum is honored to continue its long-standing relationship with the Russellville and Logan County community,” said TAA President and CEO Henry Gordinier. “We are excited to share in this project with Tennessee Aluminum Processors. The new facility’s proximity to Logan Aluminum was a key factor in determining site location.”
“We are excited to expand our aluminum recycling capabilities with a new, state-of-the-art facility located centrally in a region experiencing tremendous growth in the aluminum sector,” said Jared Sweeney, TAP CEO. “We have been very impressed by the accommodating and efficient pro-business atmosphere encountered while working on this project with representatives of Russellville, Logan County and the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”
Located in Louisville, Kentucky, Tri-Arrows Aluminum is a leading supplier of rolled aluminum sheet in the North American market focusing on the beverage can sheet and automotive sheet markets. The company is involved in a joint venture that owns the Logan Aluminum manufacturing facility in Russellville, Kentucky, which provides TAA with access to unparalleled production facilities, market networks and R&D capabilities. Founded in 1981, TAP provides a variety of secondary aluminum recycling services to customers in the transportation, packaging, construction and aerospace segments of the aluminum industry. As a toll converter of aluminum scrap and dross, the company converts aluminum into recycled secondary ingot – ensuring the highest possible aluminum recovery and reliable quality.
Logan County Judge/Executive Phil Baker noted the region’s thriving aluminum industry and welcomed the joint venture to Russellville: “Logan County is thrilled to welcome Kentucky Aluminum Processors. Their selection of our community for this project is outstanding news for our citizens. The aluminum industry is thriving, and we are happy to be a part of it!”
Russellville Mayor Mark Stratton expressed his appreciation for Kentucky Aluminum Processors choosing to locate their new facility in Russellville: “On behalf of the city of Russellville, we are blessed that Kentucky Aluminum Processors has chosen to invest here in our community. Their decision to establish operations and create new job opportunities in Russellville and Logan County is deeply valued and appreciated.”
Brooke Waldrup, president and CEO of the Logan Economic Alliance Development (LEAD), is excited about the jobs and economic opportunity the project will bring to the community: “We are extremely excited that Kentucky Aluminum Processors has chosen Logan County’s West Industrial Park as their new processing facility location. This project will not only create new jobs in our county, but it will also support our county’s largest manufacturer, Logan Aluminum. Being able to create new jobs while supporting a local existing industry is a huge win for Logan County!”
Jim DeCesare, former LEAD executive director, highlighted the achievement for the area and future economic impact it will have: “I’m honored to have played part in the locating of the aluminum processing facility in the West Industrial Park, marking a transformative moment for the community. With a significant investment and the creation of numerous new jobs, this project is poised to have a resoundingly positive economic impact. I am thrilled to witness this milestone that will not only strengthen the local economy but also showcase the region's potential for growth and prosperity.”