Orange TX – Last fall, nearly 500 employees lost their jobs when the International Paper plant in Orange, Texas, shut down unexpectedly. However, there is good news on the horizon as USG Paper, LLC plans to invest $715 million to expand its paper manufacturing operations at the former International Paper facility. This investment is expected to create between 120 to 150 new jobs for the local community.
Investment and Job Creation
USG Paper, LLC has purchased the former International Paper facility and the surrounding land. The company aims to revitalize the site and expand its manufacturing operations. According to the City of Orange’s Facebook post, this expansion will result in the creation of 120 to 150 new jobs.
Reinvestment Zone Designation and Incentives
In November 2024, the Orange City Council approved the designation of the old International Paper facility as a reinvestment zone. This designation allows the city to offer tax break incentives to attract potential buyers. Additionally, USG Paper has received approval for economic development incentives from both the City of Orange Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors and the Orange City Council. As part of these incentives, the city will provide USG Paper with a $200,000 economic incentive for two years to assist with infrastructure costs.
Significance of the Expansion
This expansion by USG Paper represents a significant economic development initiative for the region. USG Paper is a market leader in wallboard and gypsum products and has been in business since 1902. The decision to invest in Orange is seen as a positive development and an answered prayer for the community. Mayor Larry Spears expressed his excitement about the investment, stating that it has been a long time coming.
Continuing the Paper-Industry Heritage
The transformation of the former International Paper location into USG Paper’s expanded manufacturing operations marks a new chapter for the industrial site while honoring its paper-industry heritage. USG Paper plans to produce paper used in sheetrock, ensuring that the facility remains aligned with its original purpose. Mayor Spears mentioned that the investors will assess the existing site and make necessary adjustments and improvements to enhance its operations.
Community Impact and Response
The reopening of the facility is a significant victory for the community, which suffered job losses when International Paper closed its doors over a year ago. Mayor Spears acknowledged the devastation caused by the closure, particularly during the holiday season. However, the investment by USG Paper brings new hope and opportunities for residents. Darren Thomas, a community member, expressed his satisfaction with the leadership’s efforts in revitalizing the site and bringing new life to the community.
Conclusion
The $715 million investment by USG Paper in the former International Paper facility in Orange, Texas, is set to create between 120 to 150 new jobs. This expansion represents a major economic development initiative for the region and provides a much-needed boost to the local community. With the facility’s transformation, the industrial site will continue its paper-industry heritage while contributing to the production of sheetrock paper. The community eagerly awaits the positive impact of this investment and the opportunities it will bring.