News Summary
Georgia-Pacific has announced an $800 million investment to modernize and expand its Alabama River Cellulose mill in Monroe County. The project will enhance production capabilities, contribute to job creation with over 3,000 jobs expected, and improve sustainability measures. Construction will begin in the fourth quarter of 2025 and aims to transform the mill into the largest softwood pulp facility in the United States.
Monroe County, Alabama – Georgia-Pacific Announces Major Investment in Local Mill
Georgia-Pacific has revealed plans to invest $800 million in its Alabama River Cellulose mill in Monroe County, Alabama. This significant investment aims to modernize and expand the facility, poised to enhance production capabilities and streamline operations for future growth.
Construction on the expansion project is set to commence in the fourth quarter of 2025, with an expected completion date in 2027. This undertaking will increase the mill’s production capacity by approximately 300 tons per day, contributing to the nearly 1 million tons of fluff and market pulp the facility currently produces annually.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The expansion is anticipated to have a substantial economic impact on the local community, supporting over 3,000 direct and indirect jobs at the Alabama River Cellulose mill, which provides approximately $188 million in compensation and benefits. Georgia-Pacific currently employs nearly 2,400 people in Alabama, maintaining six operational facilities across the state. The company’s activities also generate an estimated 9,060 indirect jobs, translating to about $710 million in labor income.
State officials, including Governor Kay Ivey and Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, have acknowledged the project as a vote of confidence in Alabama’s workforce. They have highlighted its pivotal role in boosting the state’s forest products industry and manufacturing potential, particularly in rural areas like Monroe County.
Enhancements to Operations and Sustainability
Among the advancements included in the expansion are the installation of a state-of-the-art digester, a new pulp dryer, and a more efficient power boiler. These enhancements will transform the Alabama River Cellulose facility into the largest softwood pulp mill in the United States, as well as one of the most technologically advanced.
In addition to supporting production capabilities, the project also aims to improve the facility’s environmental performance. Goals include reducing water usage and lowering particulate emissions, aligning with broader sustainability objectives set forth by the company.
Investment History and Future Potential
Since acquiring the Alabama River Cellulose mill in 2010, Georgia-Pacific has invested over $700 million into the facility, including an investment of $80 million in 2022 aimed at expanding fluff pulp capacity. With the inclusion of this latest $800 million investment, the total capital allocated to the facility will exceed $1.5 billion.
The company has made significant commitments across the state, investing over $2.5 billion into capital improvement projects and acquisitions during the past decade. This financial commitment demonstrates Georgia-Pacific’s dedication to both its workforce and the local community, fostering job growth and enhancing the manufacturing landscape.
Conclusion
The investment in the Alabama River Cellulose mill underscores Georgia-Pacific’s commitment to modernizing its operations while supporting job growth and economic development in Alabama. With significant advancements on the horizon and a focus on sustainability, the project represents an important step forward in enhancing both local industry and environmental standards.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Made in Alabama
- PR Newswire
- AL.com
- Wikipedia: Economic Impact of Georgia-Pacific
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgia-Pacific
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
