Governor lauds regional cooperation in V&M Star project

YOUNGSTOWN — Regional cooperation among Mahoning Valley leaders is largely responsible for the state awarding $20 million in federal stimulus funds for a potential expansion of V&M Star Steel, Gov. Ted Strickland said.

“We’re going to be able to do more when we work together than we could ever possibly do as individuals,” Strickland said today at a press conference at the DeYor Performing Arts Center to discuss the funding. “Regional cooperation is hugely important and we believe this project will be critical for the entire region.”

V&M Star is considering a nearly $1 billion expansion project on land in Youngstown and Girard near the company’s business on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

The failure to obtain about 100 acres owned by Norfolk Southern railroad near the V&M site could have doomed the project, Mayor Jay Williams said.

Most of the money is needed to move the rail line and to level the property, Williams said.

Because of the economic downturn, V&M’s decision on expanding is delayed until about the end of the year.

For the complete story, read Saturday’s Vindicator or Vindy.com