Polypipe Inc. plans to build a new polyethylene pipe facility this year in Evansville, Wyo., according to local officials.
The town, which has a population of 2,300, took a big step to help the Gainsville, Texas, company Jan. 9, when its council approved a $9 million bond issue. Evansville Mayor Phil Hinds said that having a municipal authority sponsor bonds enables bondholders to gain tax-free advantages, and it provides a loan for Polypipe to build the facility.
Hinds said Polypipe probably will start construction this summer on a 10-acre site within a new, 77-acre industrial area. He said town officials are working with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Co. officials to bring a rail spur to the area as well.
``We have oil fields, natural gas - there's a lot going on. Wyoming is mineral-rich,'' said Hinds, noting the plant will be in an area where its pipe can be used.
He characterized the town as a bedroom community - not far from Casper, Wyo., which has 50,000 people - and added that ``outside of the motels in Evansville, [Polypipe] will be one of the largest employers.''
Polypipe makes small- and large-diameter high density PE pipe for a variety of markets, including oil and gas distribution, natural gas distribution and other industrial uses.
It operates six facilities in the United States and generates annual sales of about $100 million, according to Plastics News estimates.
Polypipe officials were not available for comment.