Demopolis-based Two Rivers Lumber Co. plans to create a second operation in the state, an investment of $115 million to build a sawmill in Coosa County. The project will also increase the company’s workforce by 130 jobs. The sawmill will specialize in the production of Southern yellow pine dimensional lumber.

“Alabama’s forest products industry is a national powerhouse, and it’s great to see Two Rivers Lumber continue to grow in its home state,” said Gov. Kay Ivey.

Two Rivers was established by the McElroy family, owners of McElroy Truck Lines in Cuba, Alabama, and Roy Geiger, the owner of Sumter Timber in Jefferson, Alabama. The company opened its first sawmill in Marengo County in 2017. That facility has an annual capacity of 200 million board feet and 145 full-time employees.

“We spent over a year searching for a site and planning the project — we look forward to starting up the new operation in August 2025,” said Jay McElroy. “The local and state support has been great throughout this process.”

As part of the project, Two Rivers is creating 130 jobs over a one-year period, with positions paying an average annual salary of just over $51,000, according to the Alabama Department of Commerce.

“For local residents, this means new opportunities and a brighter future for their communities,” said Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.

To support the project, Lake Martin Area Industrial Development Alliance is donating 110 acres of land, valued at $2.2 million. In addition, AIDT will provide training services to the company.

“I appreciate the support that the Coosa County Commission and Alexander City Mayor Woody Baird and his team have shown me throughout this almost 10-month recruiting process,” said Denise Walls, executive director of the Lake Martin Area Economic Development Alliance. “We all felt like this was a project worth fighting for, and we are excited that Two Rivers will make Coosa County their new home. The local impact of this project will be profound and far-reaching.”

Peak North America is leading the construction of the sawmill in Kellyton, with a start set for June.

Source: businessalabama.com