LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Stellar Snacks aims to begin production in Louisville's Park Hill neighborhood in the coming weeks, according to the state's top economic development agency.
The Nevada-based pretzel maker announced plans last year to open a facility in western Louisville, creating 350 jobs in what local officials touted as one of the largest such projects in that area in decades.
"We have continued to work with the company's leadership to ensure the project remains on track," Brandon Mattingly, spokesman for Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, said in a statement.
That work, he said, includes installing equipment and finishing construction at the Dixie Highway site while training workers. Baking is expected to start by mid-October.
Documents filed with the state's incentives board, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority, shows a total investment of $86 million. Mattingly said the "full scope" of the project is $137 million.
Stellar was approved for $2.25 million in grant funds late last year. The public subsidy includes up to $1 million to cover the cost of adding a rail spur and making related improvements; the work must be completed by the end of the year. Job credits worth another $1.25 million also are available.
The company must hire its first 100 employees by the end of 2026 and invest at least $60 million by 2030 or start paying back the public funds.
Stellar will get additional job credits — $300 per job — for workers hired from the nine neighborhoods that comprise the West End Opportunity Partnership, a state-created entity overseeing investment in the area.
Workers at the plant would make $30.20 per hour, including benefits, according to state documents.
This story may be updated.
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- Pretzel manufacturer announces $137 million investment, bringing 350 full-time jobs to west Louisville
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