"We are pleased to enter the next phase of this exciting investment and to establish CMC's manufacturing presence in West Virginia,” said Commercial Metals chairman and chief executive Barbara R. Smith. “We believe this new micro-mill, among the most environmentally friendly steelmaking operations in the world, will strengthen our operational network throughout the eastern U.S. by achieving synergies with our existing (Sayreville, N.J.) mill and downstream facilities,” she added. 

Smith said West Virginia offers several advantages, including a welcoming business climate and a skilled labor force. The Martinsburg, W.Va.-area site is also well-situated to serve key metropolitan markets in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, as well as the Midwest, she said. 

Commercial Metals announced in January that it had a fourth micro-mill on the drawing board, but hadn’t yet decided on a location.
 
The mill is being designed to produce 500,00 tons annually and will make various sizes of both straight length and spooled rebar. Start-up is expected to occur in late 2025. With economic incentives, the project is expected to cost US$450 million. 

"(The mill) is a core component of CMC's strategic growth plan and will help ensure our long-term competitiveness in critical geographical markets,” Smith said. “We look forward to becoming a vital part of the Berkeley County community and growing our presence in the Mountain State."