Citing confidence in the construction industry's ongoing recovery, CertainTeed Ceilings is reopening and expanding its ceilings manufacturing facility in Meridian, Miss. The announcement is the culmination of a re-invigoration of CertainTeed’s ceilings business and positions the company to meet growing demand for its innovative acoustical solutions.

“Bringing the Meridian plant back on-line is central to strengthening CertainTeed’s leadership position in the acoustical product marketplace,” said Graham Thayer, vice president and general manager of CertainTeed Ceilings. “The added production capacity, along with our focus on Environmental Acoustics research, will enable us to grow with the commercial construction market and continue to provide customers with sophisticated solutions for creating sustainable, comfortable and healthy interior environments.”

The Meridian plant produces a range of acoustical ceilings used in commercial applications. The manufacturer is investing $24 million into the reopening of the plant, which had previously been idled in August 2009 due to uncertainty in the construction market. The company expects the plant to resume operations by mid-2014, bringing 110 jobs to the community by 2016. Ongoing updates and employment information are available at www.certainteed.com/Meridian.

To commemorate the announcement, Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant and Meridian Mayor Cheri Barry joined CertainTeed representatives for a tree planting ceremony, symbolizing the company's renewed commitment to growth in the local community.

“We’re excited for the opportunity to become a part of the Meridian community once again and are eager to get back to work as quickly as possible,” said Thayer. “This city has always shown a dedication and strong work ethic that I’m confident will help us to continue offering our customers the most sustainable and innovative acoustical solutions in the industry.”