In a statement, the steelmaker said the greenfield mill will be built in Mason County, which is on the western side of the state, about 170 miles from Cincinnati, Ohio. Nucor also said it is considering other sites in northern West Virginia for a transload and processing facility. 

The main site, however, will house equipment needed to make approximately 3 million tons annually. 

"Our new sheet mill in Mason County will have unmatched capabilities that will enable the continued expansion of high-quality, low-carbon steels, building on our industry-leading offerings. We are pleased to create hundreds of new, high-paying jobs, and position West Virginia as a leader in clean steel production,” said Nucor chief executive Leon Topalian.

The company said the site offers transportation and logistics advantages and gives it greater ability to serve the Midwest and Northeast sheet markets. 

"Following a thorough process to determine the right location for our state-of-the-art, greenfield sheet mill, we are thrilled to make this significant investment in West Virginia and enhance our presence in this important region," said Topalian.

The mill will be capable of producing 84-inch sheet and will include a 76-inch tandem cold mill and two galvanizing lines. Galvanizing capabilities will include an advanced high-end automotive line with full inspection capabilities as well as a construction-grade line.

Construction is expected to take two years pending permit and regulatory approvals.

"We look forward to breaking ground in Mason County and partnering with colleges and universities on workforce development programs, supporting veterans' organizations and local food pantries, and working with opioid recovery programs that will provide meaningful pathways to jobs," said John Farris, vice president and general manager of Nucor Steel West Virginia.

The mill expects to create 800 full-time jobs.