Firm plans to expand its foundry in Tangipahoa Parish

Bradken Engineered Products says it will expand its Amite foundry in Tangipahoa Parish, a move that will create 171 new jobs. Bradken manufactures steel castings used in the mining, construction and marine industries. The $18.1 million expansion, which should be completed in 18 months, will retain 179 jobs at the plant. It will also create 171 direct jobs with an average annual salary of $37,500 plus benefits. “We have made retaining and expanding Louisiana’s existing businesses our top economic development priority since taking office in 2008, and Bradken’s expansion is another example of our commitment to making Louisiana the best place in the world to find a great job and pursue a rewarding career,” Gov. Bobby Jindal says. Tom Armstrong, Bradken president and CEO, says the expansion will allow the Amite foundry to increase its capacity to produce customized steel cast products. The expansion involves extending the foundry building and installing key manufacturing equipment, such as a 50-ton crane used for moving raw steel. Louisiana Economic Development officials estimate the expansion will result in the creation of 223 new indirect jobs, along with nearly $5.3 million in new state tax revenue and nearly $3.2 million in new local tax revenue over the next decade.