The headline in the monthly Tulsa Ports report declared in bold letters, “Welcome Emirates Global Aluminium–shaping Inola’s Future with Opportunity.”
“We’re thrilled to welcome Emirates Global Aluminium, the world’s largest producer of premium aluminium, to the Tulsa Port of Inola as they move forward with plans to develop the first new primary aluminium production plant in the U.S. since 1980.”
The company name calls it “aluminium” not “aluminum” so we will go with its spelling.
Regardless, the state incentive package, in the form of measure, HB 2781 and one totaling an estimated $2 billion was approved this week by the state House and as of Thursday awaited a final vote in the state Senate. Final passage undoubtedly will produce even greater excitement at the Tulsa Ports operations.
The Tulsa Ports monthly update said the $4 billion facility is expected to produce 600,000 tonnes of aluminium annually—nearly doubling domestic output and reducing America’s reliance on imports. This transformative project will bring up to 1,000 direct, permanent jobs to the region, significantly increase waterway shipping on the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System, and open the door to new opportunities for Oklahoma.
Deanne Hughes, Chair of the Tulsa Ports board, noted that the project will also generate tax revenues to support the construction of new school facilities and enhance potable water infrastructure for the Inola community.
“Tulsa Ports is thrilled to welcome Emirates Global Aluminium to the Tulsa Port of Inola,” she said.
“Their decision to locate here reflects the commitment of the Port Authority and our partners to the development of infrastructure that supports significant growth in our region. EGA’s presence will spur new permanent job creation, substantially increase waterway shipping on the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System and open the door to new opportunities for Oklahoma. Furthermore, tax revenues from this project will support the construction of new school facilities, as well as potable water enhancements for the community of Inola.”
