Kimberly-Clark Corp. This is an artist’s rendering of the Kimberly-Clark hub to be constructed in Howland and Warren townships.

A former industrial graveyard housing remains of the Mahoning Valley’s steel industry will witness a generational transformation.

After receiving its board’s approval Thursday afternoon, Kimberly-Clark Corp. announced it will build an $800 million advanced manufacturing facility on approximately 560 acres of the former RG Steel property. Approximately 500 full-time, permanent jobs are anticipated with a projected annual payroll of $49.1 million.

Construction is expected to begin this month. Completion will take two to three years, the company said.

“This landmark investment

represents a strategic bet on the American consumer and our ability to drive innovation-led sustainable growth for Kimberly-Clark,” said Russ Torres, Group President, Kimberly-Clark North America. “It reflects the confidence we have in our long-term growth plans and complements a broad range of commercial and R&D investments we have been making throughout the business as part of our Powering Care transformation journey.”

For the personal care and hygiene product producer, this marks its first facility in Ohio. Kimberly-Clark said the new facility will be “in geographic proximity to roughly 117 million consumers” and referred to it “as a vital hub for the Northeast and Midwest regions.”

Kimberly-Clark also detailed plans to invest $2 billion in its North American operations over the next five years.

It announced the expansion of its Beech Island, South Carolina, site with a state-of-the-art automated distribution center to go with upgrades to its North American supply chain. Overall, the projects are expected to create “more than 900 highly skilled jobs in industrial automation and advanced manufacturing.”

Government officials in Columbus and Trumbull County praised the commitment.

“Kimberly-Clark has advanced-production facilities all over the world, and the fact that they are now coming to Trumbull County says a great deal about the area’s workforce and Ohio’s leadership in rebuilding the domestic manufacturing supply,” Gov. Mike DeWine said in a news release.

Collaboration among local and state government bodies, in addition to assistance for economic development groups, were touted.

On Monday, the Ohio Tax Credit Authority provided the Texas-based company with a 1.837%, 10-year tax credit on the condition it operates in the Western Reserve Port Authority-owned industrial park for 13 years. Howland and Warren Township trustees, along with county commissioners, each approved 10-year, 60% tax abatements.

Last month, the port authority received $17.2 million from the All Ohio Future Fund to aid in site readiness and road infrastructure.

“Kimberly-Clark’s decision to make its first Ohio investment in Trumbull County would not have happened without close collaboration from our partner at Lake to River as well as at the state and local level to establish a site that is attractive for both rapid development and long-term growth,” JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef said.

JobsOhio, founded 12 years ago, is a private, nonprofit economic development corporation.

Guy Coviello, president and CEO of the Youngstown / Warren Regional Chamber, called Kimberly-Clark’s investment significant.

“Their presence will bring high-quality jobs and lasting economic impact to the region, and it proves the continued attractiveness of the Valley as a destination for industry and innovation,” he said.

“The achievement also reflects a broader shift across the Valley — away from a rigid, parochial mindset to one that embraces collaboration to advance shared economic goals.

“Credit is due to the several public and private partners for their hard work and dedication to secure this transformational opportunity. It was their collaboration and commitment that led to this successful result.”

The project’s early beginnings can be traced to December 2023, when Kimberly-Clark purchased land for $9.9 million from the port authority. Approximately 75% of the facility will be in Howland and 25% will be in Warren Township.

“This is a defining moment for Trumbull County,” Commissioner Rick Hernandez said. “The Kimberly-Clark project represents more than just a substantial investment; it’s a catalyst for regional revitalization. We anticipate that this development will not only bring hundreds of direct jobs but also attract ancillary businesses, boost housing and invigorate our local economy.”

The company said its announcement came one year after it launched a companywide transformation initiative — “the most comprehensive in its 150-year history.” Its strategy is to “deliver on global growth targets, with North America positioned to be a key growth driver.”

Anthony Trevena, the port authority’s executive director, said the real work is underway.

“Bringing a global company like Kimberly-Clark is the result of sustained collaboration, bold site development and the reality that this region is positioned to meet global demand,” he said. “This project demonstrates what is possible when public and private partners align around a common goal and when we invest in preparing sites that meet the moment. It sends a powerful signal to other companies that the Mahoning Valley is ready.”

Howland Trustee Dr. James LaPolla Jr. said the trustees need to sign legislation entering into a Joint Economic Development District agreement to finalize the project. He expects that vote will take place Tuesday.