Bayou Steel Corp. today announced the resumption of plant operations following the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

Jerry M. Pitts, Bayou Steel’s President and CEO reported, "Hurricane Katrina released its destructive fury on New Orleans, the Gulf Coast and surrounding areas. However, Bayou Steel Corp.'s LaPlace facility, which is located only 35 miles north of New Orleans, experienced only minor damage to the exterior of plant buildings and to phone services. The plant experienced minimal disruption and damage and resumed operations by Sunday, September 4th.

"Our concern and prayers turn to our employees and other victims of this storm who have and continue to suffer significant losses. Even in the midst of such destruction, our employees' resiliency has again been evident as the plant successfully resumed operations at normal capacity in just a few days following the hurricane.

"We are very grateful to our dedicated employees and anticipate that we will quickly return to service levels our customers have come to expect. We would like to thank in advance, the patience of our faithful customers and the continued services of our committed suppliers."

Bayou Steel Corp. manufactures light structural and merchant bar products in LaPlace, La., and Harriman, Tenn. The company also operates stocking locations along the inland waterway system near Pittsburgh, Chicago and Tulsa.