Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company, a top manufacturer of cast iron and plastic pipe and fittings, announced the purchase of 80 acres of land in Maize, Kansas, a suburb of Wichita, to build a new $80 million manufacturing facility.

“We are very excited about the opportunity to expand our operations in the Midwest,” said Hooper Hardison, CEO of Charlotte Pipe and Foundry. “Maize is ideally located in the center of the country to help us better serve our customers. It is also a fast-growing, business-friendly community with an excellent workforce we can draw from to staff our new plant.”

The expansion, which received local, county and state government support, is expected to create 50 new, full-time positions in Maize.

“Our laser-sharp focus on supporting businesses and investing in infrastructure continues to drive economic growth in every corner of the state,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “Charlotte Pipe and Foundry brings a strong, family-oriented culture coupled with good-paying jobs and benefits to central Kansas. My administration looks forward to supporting the company’s success.”

“Recruiting and securing expansions like Charlotte Pipe and Foundry is key to our state’s economic growth,” said Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland. “Great jobs — like the 50 new jobs being announced — will help attract and retain skilled workers in our state, allowing more businesses to get the job done here in Kansas.”

Local officials echo that sentiment, adding they proudly welcome Charlotte Pipe and Foundry as it signifies a positive step toward enhancing the area’s workforce.

“This is a great day for the City of Maize. Our skilled workforce is eager to get to work and help Charlotte Pipe and Foundry solidify its 122 years in business by bringing quality piping to customers across the globe while diversifying the Maize economy,” said Maize Mayor Patrick Stivers. “The company’s strong, family-oriented culture is a perfect fit in our community.”

“The County Commission is thrilled Charlotte Pipe and Foundry, a stable employer, chose to expand in Sedgwick County and the City of Maize. South Central Kansas is a proven manufacturing hub, and we support the company as it gives our talented workforce another strong opportunity to sharpen their skills and provide an essential manufacturing service,” said Sedgwick County Commissioner David Dennis.

The 134,000-square-foot plant will be located in the 5800 block of 119th Street West with premier access to the Kansas & Oklahoma Railroad (K&O), aiding in the company’s production of PVC pipes for plumbing and irrigation applications. WATCO, a single-source transportation and supply chain services company, was a pivotal partner in addressing Charlotte Pipe and Foundry’s rail needs.

“We were happy to assist Charlotte Pipe and Foundry in its expansion, specifically with their rail needs. Partnerships such as this highlight how thoughtful teamwork leads to success and longevity in community and business,” said WATCO Sales Director Casey Harbour.

In addition, Evergy exemplified unwavering dedication by engaging in collaboration with Charlotte Pipe and Foundry, leading to infrastructure development to yield both financial viability and long-term sustainability.

“Evergy was pleased to work closely with Charlotte Pipe and Foundry to find cost-effective solutions that support its expansion and foster economic growth in Maize and the Greater Wichita region as a whole,” said Evergy Senior Economic Development Manager Ebony Clemons.

“We extend our sincere appreciation to all government entities and business partners for their due diligence and commitment to make this land purchase and subsequent facility construction a reality. Charlotte Pipe is proud to have served its customers since 1901 and we look forward to continued success in Kansas,” Hardison added.

Construction on the Maize facility, the company’s seventh plastics plant in the United States, is expected to begin in January 2024 with completion slated for early 2025.