FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 8, 2015) – Governor Steve Beshear today announced that StrikerBilt LLC plans to expand its operations in western Kentucky.
StrikerBilt, which manufactures equipment used to produce railroad ties, is expected to create up to 10 new jobs and invest nearly $1.5 million into the project.
"StrikerBilt is a shining example of Kentucky's strong economic growth," said Gov. Beshear. "These 10 new jobs and $1.5 million investment speak volumes about the confidence StrikerBilt has in Kentucky's workforce and the success the company has enjoyed here in the Commonwealth."
StrikerBilt plans to move from its current facility in Central City into a 54,000-square-foot facility on Opportunity Way in Greenville. The larger operation will allow the company to bring in new and larger production equipment. It also will help streamline productivity and allow for faster turnaround times for customers. The project is expected to be completed before the end of the year.
"We at StrikerBilt are excited about the growth opportunities in the upcoming months," said Wayne Fleming, president of StrikerBilt. "It is very apparent to us the importance the Commonwealth of Kentucky places on attracting and assisting businesses. We are fortunate to have the city, county and state support as we have recently received."
StrikerBilt produces equipment that is used to manufacture railroad materials. The Alabama-based company purchased the Kentucky facility last year. The Muhlenberg County facility currently has eight employees.
"We certainly appreciate the faith in which StrikerBilt has placed in our community," said Sen. C.B. Embry, of Morgantown. "We are pleased to have provided a business-friendly environment for this expansion to be made possible, and we will continue to fight to create solid Kentucky jobs."
"StrikerBilt's investment in Muhlenberg County is a welcomed shot in the arm for our area," said Rep. Brent Yonts, of Greenville. "The company's decision to bring additional investment to the county helps sustain and create good paying manufacturing jobs for our entire community. I want to thank the company for its commitment to Muhlenberg County and to the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development for its support of this important project."
"As Mayor of Greenville, I want to thank StrikerBilt LLC for its decision to locate in an existing facility in Greenville and for keeping good jobs in Muhlenberg County," said Greenville Mayor Jan Yonts. "StrikerBilt's commitment to this area not only helps to sustain our tax base, but gives hope to those desiring a good paying manufacturing job in the county."
"I want to thank StrikerBilt LLC for keeping this investment in Muhlenberg County and supporting our manufacturing infrastructure with good paying jobs that are critical to helping advance our economic development efforts," said Muhlenberg County Judge-Executive Rick Newman.
To encourage the investment and job creation, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) preliminarily approved the company for tax incentives up to $195,000 through the Kentucky Business Investment program. The performance-based incentive allows a company to keep a portion of its investment over the term of the agreement through corporate income tax credits and wage assessments by meeting job and investment targets.
To learn more about StikerBilt, visit www.StrikerBilt.com
A detailed community profile for Greenville (Muhlenberg County) can be viewed here.