News

November 7, 2008

Sloan To Add 20 Jobs, $15 Million Investment

Duncan-based Sloan Construction Co. Inc. announced Thursday its plans to invest $15 million into building a new liquid asphalt cement storage and distribution facility and create about 20 jobs in Union County. Construction on 50 acres in the 1300 block of Highway 18 is scheduled to begin this month, and the plant is expected to be in full operation by early 2009.

Sloan specializes in working with liquid asphalt and hot mix asphalt products used in the construction and maintenance of highways, airports, parking lots and driveways.

"This facility will help ensure our supply of liquid asphalt cement, which is vital to our business," said Scott Fant, manager of business development for Sloan Construction Co. Inc., in a statement. "The business environment, skilled work force and location in Union County are excellent and are the right fit for our company."

The 75-year-old company also has facilities in Columbia, Blacksburg, Winston-Salem, N.C., and Toccoa, Ga. "We are pleased to welcome Sloan Construction Company Inc. to our business community," said Donnie Betenbaugh, Union County Council chairman, in a statement. "The company has a long history in South Carolina, and this announcement means more job opportunities for Union County residents."

Union County's 11.9 percent unemployment rate in September was the seventh highest in the state. Local officials, however, predict a turnaround and more economic growth, as 2008 already has been a banner year for economic development, with $260 million in new investments and the creation of about 150 new jobs. A few of the bigger projects have included BMW supplier LSP Automotive Systems' $96 million investment for nearly 130 jobs at its Union facility and Virginia-based fuel company Osage Bio Energy's investment of $161.5 million for the state's first barley-based ethanol plant in the eastern part of the county.

"It's been a very positive year for us; one of the best we've ever had," said Stanley Vanderford, director of the Union County Economic Development Board. "We're very excited that Sloan is going to be creating jobs and investment in our county."

Founded in 1933, Sloan Construction is one of the largest heavy highway and general contracting companies in the Carolinas and Georgia. The company provides a full range of heavy construction services, from excavation and site work to asphalt paving and bridge construction.

For information, visit: www.sloan-construction.com.