WestRock has broken ground on a 97-million dollar expansion at its paper mill in Hodge. The paper mill has been a major employer in Jackson Parish for 90 years as it’s responsible for 450 direct jobs. State Representative Jack McFarland says the facility is also a driver of economic activity for surrounding parishes.

“Since it’s part of our largest agricultural crop of timber, once you break down all of the jobs it creates, just for example in the logging community and the wood chip community,” said McFarland.

McFarland says the 97-million dollars will expand and modernize the facility which produces high-quality containerboard used in manufacturing containers.

“What it does it secures that industry and that mill for at least another decade or two,” said McFarland.

The mill began operations in 1928.

The governor’s office says the company is expected to utilize the state’s Industrial Tax Exemption Program and the initial start-up of the new wood processing equipment is scheduled for a year from now. McFarland thanks WestRock for securing jobs and supporting contractors who rely on the mill.

“It means a lot, the community is committed to seeing WestRock succeed and I’m thankful that WestRock is committed to seeing our community have an opportunity to prosper and grow as well,” said McFarland.

Construction is expected to continue into 2024, with a final completion date to be determined.

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