James Composites to invest nearly $6 million in Marshall County, creating 25 jobs
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
FRANKFORT, Ky., (KBSI) — Gov. Andy Beshear announced Monday that James Composites LLC plans to invest nearly $6 million to establish a new manufacturing operation in Marshall County, creating 25 full-time jobs.
The company, which produces fiberglass barge covers, will invest $5.8 million to open its first facility in Kentucky. The project will be located at 390 Riverside Lane in Calvert City, providing direct access to the Tennessee River through an on-site marine ways system. Construction of a new building is expected to be completed by November.
“Kentucky’s manufacturing industry continues to fuel our historic economic momentum, providing quality job opportunities and investment in communities across the entire state,” Beshear said. “James Composites is creating dozens of great jobs for Kentuckians while further strengthening our commonwealth’s industrial base.”
The project is expected to create 25 jobs in the fiberglass manufacturing industry, including specialized positions in fabrication and production.
James Composites was organized in April 2025 to manufacture fiberglass barge covers for inland waterways. The company expects to begin operations in early 2027 following completion of the facility. James Composites is part of the James Marine Inc. family of companies, which was founded in 1986 and provides a range of services to the inland river industry, including vessel repair, construction, fueling and towing services.
Jeff James, managing member of James Composites and president and CEO of James Marine, said the company is excited to expand operations into Kentucky.
“This new business will allow us to create high-quality jobs here in the commonwealth and provide an additional supply option for a vital product to the inland waterways barge market,” James said.
Marshall County Judge-Executive Kevin Spraggs welcomed the investment, calling it an opportunity that supports local jobs and strengthens the regional economy. Calvert City Mayor Gene Colburn said the expansion reflects the area’s strong workforce and strategic location along inland waterways.
Elizabeth Griffith Mudd, president of Kentucky Lake Economic Development, said the project highlights the region’s industrial strength and appeal to manufacturing companies, particularly those tied to marine and river-related industries.
