Officials from Louisville Railcar Repair, contract manufacturer and repairer of rail cars, broke ground today on its new facility at the site of the transload rail facility in Louisville, Miss., in Winston County. The project, which will consist of repair, paint and welding facilities, represents a company investment of $1.3 million and will create 30 new jobs.
“I commend Louisville Railcar Repair for choosing to locate at the transload rail facility in Louisville and creating these new jobs for the area’s workers,” Governor Phil Bryant said. “The company’s decision to locate in Winston County will greatly benefit the local economy and the residents of Louisville for years to come.”
The transload rail facility is located on the site formerly owned by Richton Tie and Timber Company. In 2011, the City of Louisville purchased the property to create the transload rail facility so the area’s existing industries could load and unload goods being shipped on the Kansas City Railroad with greater ease and less expense. Louisville’s concept of a city creating a transload facility is the first of its kind along the Kansas City Southern system, and it serves as a model for smaller communities looking to reuse outdated rail sites.
“We are excited about the opportunity to locate our business in Winston County. We expect to hire about 30 people, and we look forward to meeting new people during this process. We previously had a company in Meridian and after researching the possibilities, we felt Winston County fit our needs. We felt welcomed by all involved,” said Ronald McDevitt, Louisville Railcar Repair owner.
The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) worked closely with company and local officials on the project and provided assistance for infrastructure improvements and site preparation. The Appalachian Regional Commission provided assistance for the project, as well.
“I am pleased to see this transload rail facility attracting new businesses to Louisville, and I am grateful to Louisville Railcar Repair for its investment in the area and its workforce,” said Jim Barksdale,
Mississippi Development Authority interim executive director. “I am proud MDA could assist with this project, and I wish the company years of success in Winston County.”
Louisville Railcar Repair opened in June 2011. The company repairs, refurbishes and services railcars that have been involved in train accidents and/or derailments, as well as railcars that need replacement parts due to metal fatigue or scheduled inspections per federal transportation requirements. Owners Ronald and Beverly McDevitt have over 25 years of experience repairing railcars.
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