By James Jones
The Selma Times-Journal

Dallas County was recently named Alabama’s best in Capital Investment, according to a Governor’s report.

In the Governor’s report of 2017 New &Expanding Industry Announcements, Dallas County has $556.2 million invested in capital investment.

Most of Dallas County’s total came from the International Paper investment in the Riverdale Mill to convert part of their operation to produce white top liner board and container board. Two Dallas County companies invested an estimated $3.5 million.

Economic Development Authority Executive Director Wayne Vardaman worked with Gov. Kay Ivey’s office, IP, State of Alabama, State Departments of Commerce and Revenue and the Dallas County Commission to complete the deal.

“I’d like to thank Gov. Ivey for her assistance in making this happen in rural Alabama,” Vardaman said. “The process is never easy, but what a win for Selma and Dallas County.”

The Dallas County Commission, with help from EDA, is applying for funds from the state to help build a new access road to the Riverdale Mill. The purpose of the new road is to accommodate an additional 70 trucks expected at the mill daily.

IP will capitalize on Alabama Industrial training, which works with industries free to train prospective employees and current workers on the new machinery.

Construction began March 1, and expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2022. More than 700 workers are projected to need housing on the project.

“As these workers arrive over the next few months searching for places to recent, buy gas, food and additional equipment and tools. IP’s investment is a win for all,” Vardaman said.