Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, along with Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart McWhorter, and officials from Kordsa, Inc. announced the company’s plans to expand its manufacturing operations in Chattanooga.
The $50 million investment will create 200 new jobs in the area and increase production capacity for the conversion of Kordsa’s products into tire cord fabric.
“It’s encouraging to see a company like Kordsa breathe new life into an industrial site that has played a significant role in Hamilton County’s economic history. Two of my own great grandfathers moved to Hamilton County to pursue long careers at DuPont, and our hope is that Kordsa continues the legacy of quality employment on this site in Chattanooga for many years to come,” Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp said.
Kordsa’s Chattanooga facility produces Nylon 66 yarn that ships to North Carolina for further conversion into tire cord fabric. The company develops environmentally friendly products for the tire industry that help reduce fuel consumption and provide better-wet grip for improved safety.
“Our Kordsa Facility wants to continue the development of our business and community for generations to come. Not only do our products reinforce many important products, but our core values reinforce our commitment to providing the best quality products made by the best employees. Kordsa would like to express the most sincere thanks to the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development for assisting us with this project, which will create jobs and opportunities for our community,” Kadir Toplu, COO, Kordsa said.
This expansion is a testament to economic development initiatives in Hamilton County. Since 2019, the Department of Economic and Community Development has supported over 20 economic development projects in the county, resulting in approximately 4,300 job commitments and $1.6 billion in capital investment.
“Kordsa’s investment, combined with Rise Partners’ ongoing investment in the North River Commerce Center, brings the total investment in the former DuPont property to more than $150 million. This is a prime example of Chattanooga’s continued commitment to revitalization and job creation across the city,” Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly said.
The expansion of Kordsa’s manufacturing operations in Chattanooga marks a notable victory for both company and community. With the creation of 200 new jobs, the region will experience a boost in economic growth and development. Additionally, the increased production capacity will allow Kordsa to better serve its customers and meet the growing demand for environmentally friendly products in the tire industry.
“Kordsa’s investment is another great win for our local economy. The company’s expansion will create new job opportunities with livable wages for Chattanooga and Hamilton County. This investment is possible through collaborative efforts by local and state entities that strive to bring high-quality jobs to Tennessee. We’re grateful to EPB, TVA, and the Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development for their unwavering support in championing these investments. We also thank Kordsa for its continued presence and investment in Hamilton County, which will undoubtedly contribute to our regional growth,” Steve Hiatt, Director of Existing Business Development, Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce said.
Read more about the former DuPont property and North River Commerce Park, here.
