Open letter to those involved in site selection decisions

for a Marcellus Shale ethane cracker:

 We, the undersigned, come together as business and community leaders to voice our strong support for the construction of an ethane cracker plant (“cracker”) in West Virginia's Kanawha Valley.

Construction of a cracker in our region is a very real and transformative possibility as a result of development of the massive Marcellus Shale natural gas reserves.  In addition to its vast size, the Marcellus Shale is distinguished by its high levels of ethane.  A cracking facility converts ethane to ethylene, a building block for many common products used by consumers and businesses around the world. 

We believe that a cracker has the potential to substantially amplify the state’s Marcellus Shale advantage, and offers the best chance to keep the many economic benefits of our natural resources where they belong – here in West Virginia:   

First is the direct benefit of attracting a cracker.  The construction of a world class ethane cracker plant has been estimated to require capital investment of $1-$2 billion and will generate thousands of construction jobs.  Furthermore, there is evidence that there is sufficient supply of ethane to support more than one cracker in West Virginia. 

Second, the availability of ethylene, which is used to manufacture 40-50 products used every day in our homes and vehicles, would attract additional chemical manufacturing plants and hundreds, if not thousands, of permanent, high value jobs with benefits.  Construction of a cracker will spark a resurgence of the region’s manufacturing industries.

The resulting boost to our industrial base will benefit all of us, be it through new business and employment opportunities or increased tax revenues that will support vital public services.   It is a benefit that we, our children and grandchildren will enjoy for decades to come.

Clendenin was the site of the world’s first cracker and our region has the people, the know-how and the assets to transform this vision into a reality.

By signing this letter, we wish to send a clear message that the Kanawha Valley is open for business and  the game-changing possibilities presented by construction of a cracker in our region.  We urge those currently researching the potential locations for this investment to give the Kanawha Valley their highest consideration.  We support our chemical and manufacturing industries and we stand by as partners to help usher in this new development and the new jobs and innovations it will bring to our community. 

Sincerely, the undersigned:

 (Please write "YES" after your signature if you will allow those promoting recruitment of a cracker to the Kanawha Valley to use your name and title in public communications supporting this effort.)