Chicago Heights Steel to Start $500,000 Expansion Project

The City Council unanimously approved an economic incentive and tax rebate Agreement with Chicago Heights Steel at Monday's meeting that will allow the company to move forward with its plans for a $500,000 dollar, 20,000 foot expansion project.

Previously, at the August 6, 2012 meeting, the City Council unanimously approved a Cook County Class 8 Economic Development Incentive as part of Chicago Heights Steel’s application process. 

The economic incentive agreement between the City and Chicago Heights Steel will help spur the expansion of its steel bar manufacturing facility; create approximately 12 new jobs post-construction; assist commerce in the community; stimulate economic growth; and increase tax and utility revenues to the City (an annual rebate of a portion of the utility tax, up to $50,000 per year).

According to Bradley R. Corral, President of Chicago Heights Steel, the expansion project is being done at the request of one of their major customers, who is seeking a lighter weight bar that has less steel content and thus a lower cost.  The expansion will allow Chicago Heights Steel to keep servicing this customer; as well as protect the jobs of approximately 250 employees, of which 102 are Chicago Heights residents.