In the heart of Tennessee, a $6.6 billion investment by Korea Zinc is set to transform Clarksville into a hub for critical mineral production, while simultaneously reopening a closed mine in nearby Gordonsville. This monumental project, backed by a $2.15 billion partnership with the U.S. Department of War, is not just a boon for the local economy but a strategic move to bolster domestic supply chains and reduce reliance on Chinese imports.
At the heart of this initiative is a nearly 7-million-square-foot integrated smelter, designed to process approximately 1.1 million tons of ores into zinc annually. This facility, equipped with cutting-edge technology, will create 420 new jobs in Clarksville and position the city as a key player in the global zinc market. Site preparation is slated to begin this year, with full-scale construction set to commence in 2027.
The project’s significance extends beyond economic benefits. The U.S. Department of War’s involvement underscores the strategic importance of the facility, which will produce 13 minerals critical to defense needs. Tennessee Senator Bill Hagerty (R) highlighted the project’s dual impact, stating, “This project will expand the United States’ capacity to produce the minerals that power our advanced industries and defense capabilities, strengthening national security while delivering high-paying jobs for hundreds of Tennessee families.”
The ripple effects of this investment are already being felt in Smith County, where a closed mine in Gordonsville is set to reopen. This revival will bring back 320 jobs, a welcome development for County Mayor Jeff Mason. “I am extremely excited to hear that mining operations are set to resume in Gordonsville and Smith County,” he said. “Knowing that Smith County will play a vital role in our nation’s defense efforts and in supporting emerging technologies is a source of great pride for our community.”
Korea Zinc’s choice of Clarksville is no coincidence. The city offers a compelling combination of a skilled workforce, reliable infrastructure, and strong collaboration at both the state and local levels. Tennessee’s history of securing international partnerships, particularly with Japanese companies like Nissan and Bridgestone, has laid a solid foundation for this latest investment. Yun B. Choi, Korea Zinc’s Chairman, emphasized the strategic importance of the location, stating, “Tennessee offers a compelling combination of a highly skilled workforce, reliable infrastructure and strong collaboration at both the state and local levels, making it an ideal location for this project.”
This investment is part of a broader trend of international companies setting their sights on Tennessee. Earlier in December, Clarksville announced Japan’s T.RAD was bringing a $90.2 million factory to town. Korea Zinc’s arrival cements South Korea’s status as another top international partner for the region. Choi looks toward the future with optimism, stating, “We look forward to building a lasting partnership with Tennessee and the Clarksville community as we grow together.”
For the construction industry, this project represents a significant opportunity. The scale of the investment and the strategic importance of the facility are expected to drive demand for skilled labor and advanced construction technologies. As the industry continues to evolve, projects like these highlight the critical role of international partnerships in shaping the future of construction and infrastructure development.
In a world where sustainability and technological innovation are increasingly intertwined, this project stands as a testament to the potential of strategic investments to drive economic growth, enhance national security, and create lasting community benefits. As Clarksville prepares to welcome this new chapter, the construction industry watches closely, ready to meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.