Steel Dynamics welcomes economic development officials, on pace for 2021 commissioning
Chris RamirezSINTON — Steel Dynamics Inc.'s $1.9 billion plant near Sinton is quickly taking shape.
Officials for the Corpus Christi Regional Economic Development Corp. on Friday toured the 2,500-acre compound.
Two years ago, it was a sorghum field that attracted turkey vultures and the occasional falcon. Today, massive buildings, cranes and hundreds of workers in hard hats and safety equipment can be seen on the site.
"It's been amazing to see the progress they've made out there," said Iain Vasey, the economic development agency's president/CEO.
Vasey posted several images of the under-construction plant, including one of himself and board members Rick Valls and William Goldston standing inside a crucible furnance.
Roughly 1,500 employees, most construction workers, are on the site each day.
Vasey said company officials have indicated the plant will be ready for commissioning by mid-2021. Commissioning is the stage in an industrial project where equipment and processes are tested to verify they function according to their design specifications or objectives.
Steel Dynamics, a Fort Wayne, Indiana company, has been making headway in recent months on its effort to develop a $1.9 billion electric-arc-furnace flat roll steel mill near Sinton.
Steel Dynamics believes the Sinton plant, which is being built just east of the intersection of State Highway 89 and U.S. Highway 77, eventually will play a pivotal role in its plans to best serve customers in Texas, the Western United States and Mexico.
The plant will be designed to produce 3 million tons of steel each year.
Steel Dynamics, and city and San Patricio County officials expect the project to create 600 jobs.
Chris Ramirez writes about energy, commerce and all things business. Support local coverage like this by checking out our subscription options and special offers at Caller.com/subscribe
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