USG Corp. announced plans to expand and improve manufacturing capabilities at its Jacksonville, Fla., plant. As part of the investment, a new production line will be added to manufacture USG’s Securock ExoAir 430 panels.

“We have been a part of the Jacksonville community for 80 years and I look forward to this next phase of growth,” said Jennifer Scanlon, president and CEO of USG. “This investment reflects our commitment to making high-quality, innovative building products that solve customer challenges and create a safer, more sustainable future.”

The Securock ExoAir 430 Air Barrier System is the only integrated gypsum sheathing panel with a pre-applied fluid air-barrier membrane, which eliminates application challenges like weather impact, material waste and performance variances, and enables better speed of construction. The addition of the high-speed, automated production line in Jacksonville will allow USG to distribute Securock ExoAir 430 to more customers throughout the United States and Canada.

In addition to the 430 line, investments will be made in the Jacksonville facility to improve overall plant efficiency, including upgrades to modernize process mill equipment. The Jacksonville plant also produces wallboard, joint compounds and other surface products.

“I’m excited about the opportunities USG Corporation’s expansion will create in Jacksonville,” said Lenny Curry, mayor of Jacksonville. “As a worldwide leader in manufacturing, USG is contributing to Jacksonville’s growing position as a leading destination for international business and demonstrates our commitment to fostering an environment that encourages economic development and job creation.”

Construction and plant updates are projected to be completed by the end of 2018. The company expects to add approximately 20 new jobs as a result.