Building materials manufacturer James Hardie recently revealed plans to erect a new, 1-million-sq-ft manufacturing plant for fiber cement products in Crystal City, MO to meet rising demand for fiber cement siding, soffit, and trim.

The company’s decision to invest in Missouri is partially linked to the strength of Jefferson County’s workforce, the Missouri Department of Economic Development said in a release announcing the investment.

“The City of Crystal City was founded in 1871 as a manufacturing town for the purpose of making glass,” said City Administrator of Crystal City Jason Eisenbeis in a statement. “Over 150 years later, we’re proud to continue our history and tradition of being a manufacturing town by partnering with James Hardie for their newest plant in North America. James Hardie’s investment in Crystal City will bring generational job opportunities for decades to come.”

240 new jobs will be created with the opening of the location.

James Hardie produces fiber cement and fiber gypsum building products in facilities across North America, Australia, Europe, New Zealand, and the Philippines.