Gibraltar steel plant is getting new start

GIBRALTAR, Mich. – The nearly dormant McLouth steel processing plant in Gibralter will have new life and new jobs.

The Wayne County Commission has cleared the way for new owners and long-awaited environmental cleanup.

It isn't some filthy foundry or smelting operation. They will process steel at the plant, heat treating it for high-strength, low-weight product for automotive components.

The plant's new owner Ferrolux of Cleveland wasted no time putting up a new sign. The work will be almost as immediate.

"We'll invest $53 million for a new line, should create 100 new jobs," said Steve Swan, Ferrolux Gibraltar general manager.

The deal was contingent on approval of a brownfield environmental cleanup receiving unanimous approval from the Wayne County Commission.

"Well it means the world to Downriver," said Commissioner Joseph Palmara. "They'll clean up the nearly 42 acres including asbestos removal, hazardous materials removal, groundwater cleanup and other cleanup around the site."

The cleanup does not include old McLouth soil and groundwater contamination on adjacent properties to the west and south not involved in the sale. Those are on the EPA's superfund priorities list.

The upgraded line runs on natural gas, not coal, and company officials stress it will operate well-within allowable air quality emissions.

The cleanup and upgrades should be completed by this time next year with a climate controlled interior. And yes, a fresh coat of paint outside.