Gov. Andy Beshear announced today that James Composites LLC will invest $5.8 million to establish its first Kentucky manufacturing facility in Calvert City, creating 25 full-time jobs in Marshall County.
The company, which manufactures fiberglass barge covers, will be located at 390 Riverside Lane, providing direct access to the Tennessee River through the site’s marine ways system. Construction of a new manufacturing building is expected to be completed by November, with operations anticipated to begin in early 2027.
“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.”
Calvert City Mayor Gene Colburn said the investment reflects the community’s strength and strategic location.
“Any time we see an expansion from an existing business, it’s exciting for Calvert City, because it speaks to the strength of our community and the importance of retaining the companies that already believe in this region,” Colburn said. “Having a company like James Marine invest and expand through James Composites is a strong sign that our location, our workforce, and our access to the inland waterways continue to make Calvert City a prime economic driver for Marshall County and Western Kentucky.”
James Composites LLC was organized in April 2025 and is part of the James Marine Inc. family of companies, which provides a wide range of services to the inland river industry. The company expects to begin operations in early 2027 following completion of the new facility.
Elizabeth Griffith Mudd, president of Kentucky Lake Economic Development, said the project underscores the region’s appeal to manufacturers.
“This investment reflects the strength of our industrial base, our access to inland waterways, and the skilled workforce that continues to make this region attractive to manufacturing companies,” Mudd said.
James Composites will also be eligible for workforce resources through Kentucky’s workforce service providers, including no-cost recruitment assistance and reduced-cost customized training.
For more information about James Composites, visit jamesmarine.com.
Information about Calvert City and Marshall County economic development opportunities is available through Kentucky Lake Economic Development and the Cabinet for Economic Development.
