New plant to boost economy in the area

It's unusual to hear of a major company moving a plant from another state into Louisiana, as it's usually the other way around. For far too long, the state and the region has struggled to court business. Often the sight is business, industry and talented personnel leaving Louisiana for better opportunities.

In a change from the normal way of things, Dow Chemical is doing just that -- moving to the region, particularly to Hahnville. Dow has decided to close its South Charleston Vinyl Methyl Ether plant in West Virginia and move it to Dow's present site in Hahnville.

It will mean a boost to the economy of this area. Though it will add only 15 to 20 new jobs permanently, many construction jobs will be created temporarily.

The primary reason for the move is to put the company's vinyl methyl ether plant nearer to the source of the raw materials which are made in Hahnville. In the past, they have been shipped by rail or truck to the site in West Virginia.

Dow has been a good friend to St. Charles Parish in many ways. It has cooperated with the parish and other businesses in times of need.

We look forward to an even greater relationship with Dow in the future. It means a lot to us