Brick Maker to Open Graves County Plant

A brick maker for the steel industry plans to open a factory in Graves County early next year, bringing more than 30 new jobs to the area.

Gov. Andy Beshear announced Tuesday that PRCO America Inc., a manufacturer of specialty refractory brick for the steel industry, plans to open its first U.S. production facility next year in Graves County, a nearly $5.5 million investment. The 32 new positions are expected to pay an average hourly wage of $24.50, including benefits.

Beshear's office says PRCO plans to establish a state-of-the-art refractory plant in an approximately 35,000-square-foot building in Hickory. The company will also use three other buildings on the site for various purposes, including office space. The operation will produce custom-sized resin-bonded magnesia graphite refractory brick, which steel mills use to line their furnaces and transfer ladles.

The company says the facility could begin production by the end of 2020. It will be eligible for various tax incentives.

Sen. Stan Humphries, of Cadiz; Rep. Richard Heath, of Mayfield; Mayfield Mayor Kathy O'Nan; and Graves County Judge-Executive Jesse Perry all celebrated the announcement, saying it will benefit the local economy.