Gov.Unveils $97 Million Modernization Project for WestRock Paper Mill, Boosting Jobs in North LA

Thursday morning, Gov. John Bel Edwards visited WestRock Paper Mill to announce the beginning of construction on a $97 million project to modernize the woodyard located on the 1,700-acre facility. Since its opening in 1928, Hodge’s papermill has been the largest private employer in the region and the main driver of economic activity with 450 employees. The mill also supports about 3,700 indirect jobs, said state Rep. Jack McFarland, R-Winnfield.

“WestRock’s latest investment in this facility is an investment in the workers of north Louisiana and the rural revitalization of our state,” said Gov. Edwards. “We’re grateful for the company’s continuing commitment to Louisiana’s workers, to our rural communities, and to the growth and diversification of our timber industry.”

The Hodge mill, previously Rock-Tenn, was merged with MeadWestVaco in 2015 to form WestRock. With over 320 locations in 30 countries, WestRock is the 2nd largest packing company in America. The Hodge Facility produces high-quality containerboard used to make corrugated containers such as cardboard boxes. It also supplies electricity and wastewater treatment to the Village of Hodge.

“WestRock is committed to delivering on the promise of a sustainable future. The planned woodyard improvements are expected to reduce the use of source material by 4% while yielding higher product volume. This makes our planet better and contributes to the long-term operational success of both our facility and the Hodge community,” said Patrick Kivits, president of corrugated packaging at WestRock.