Gov. John Bel Edwards and International Paper Bogalusa Mill Manager Bernie Chascin announced the company plans to invest up to $52.2 million in capital to increase the efficiency of the mill, which has been a manufacturing mainstay of Washington Parish for more than a century. Through the project, International Paper plans to retain the mill’s 492 direct jobs that provide an average annual salary of more than $86,000, plus benefits. In Bogalusa, IP operates a paper mill and an associated corrugated box plant. The modernization program would enhance the paper mill’s efficiency by upgrading the recovery boiler system, along with filtration, condenser and acid system enhancements in the papermaking process.
Gov. Edwards said this commitment to Bogalusa and Washington Parish represented a significant project win for the entire state and reinforces the great strength of Louisiana’s forest products sector.
Bogalusa Mayor Wendy O’Quin-Perrette said the significant reinvestment by International Paper will affect the lives of every citizen in the City of Bogalusa. She added, that by securing nearly 500 jobs, the city can look forward to the economic prosperity the investment will bring to their community for many years to come.
