PSL North America will build large diameter line pipes in Hancock County, state officials say.

Details will be announced Thursday in Diamondhead at a news conference with Gov. Haley Barbour and local officials, said Melissa Medley, spokeswoman for Mississippi Development Authority.

Medley said the plant will have 275 workers.

“It’s a real asset to us at this point in our recovery,” Hancock County supervisor Lisa Cowand said. “We’re still the best well-kept secret here, (companies) are going to keep finding us.”

Hancock County has an airport, rail line and easy access to Interstate 10, Cowand said.

The pipe manufacturing facility is projected to be up and running by early to mid-2008.

Although finding housing for employees of the new facility will be a challenge, Cowand said, “I’ve talked to several people this week who have been able to find affordable rentals. They are limited, no question, but people are starting to rebuild. I think it will all work out in the long run.”