Arcadia Paper Mills plans to acquire former Cascades Tissue site in St. Helens
The company plans to revitalize the factory, create jobs and strengthen the local economy with an investment of US$7.5 million
Arcadia Paper Mills is in the process of due diligence to acquire the former Cascades Tissue site, located in St. Helens, Oregon. The company intends to invest significantly in revitalizing the site and expects to create between 50 and 100 jobs in the region during the initial phases of the project.
The acquisition, valued at US$7.5 million, includes a five-year payment plan. According to a statement from Arcadia, the aim is to restore the potential of the 35-acre site and contribute to local economic development, in line with the needs of the community.
PLANNING AND ECONOMIC IMPACT
Craig Allen, plant manager, said that the unit will produce main rolls of tissue paper, weighing one to two tons, which will later be converted into products such as roll towels, folded towels and napkins. The initial operation will have 50 to 60 jobs and is expected to grow to more than 100 jobs in the following phases, covering operational, technical and administrative functions.
The town of St. Helens approved the transaction following the termination of the lease with Cascades Tissue, which paid $600,000 for the breach. Representatives of the municipality and the local economic sector highlighted the importance of the project for the resumption of production at the former Boise White Paper mill, with direct benefits for the regional economy.
ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY
The lack of electrical capacity was one of the reasons that put off other investors, such as American Hyperion Solar, which abandoned a billion-dollar renewable energy project in the region at the beginning of 2024. However, Arcadia says it is prepared to work with local suppliers of electricity, natural gas and wastewater services.
Mayor Rick Scholl and other members of the city council expressed enthusiasm about Arcadia’s arrival, stressing that the project is a unique opportunity to revitalize the local economy and re-establish the industrial use of the site.
