Blevins Asphalt opens new facility in Mount Vernon, investing more than $2.8 million and creating 2 new jobs

Blevins Asphalt, a paving and construction company, announced today that it has opened a new facility in Mount Vernon, investing more than $2.8 million and creating 2 new jobs. The new 16,000-square-foot maintenance facility will decrease repair times and increase customer satisfaction.

"Missouri continues to build on its strong foundation for growth, and Blevins Asphalt's investment in a new facility in Mount Vernon is a testament to that momentum," said Governor Mike Kehoe. "This project not only strengthens our state's infrastructure capabilities but also brings quality jobs and new opportunities to the region. We are proud to support companies like Blevins Asphalt that are choosing to invest in Missouri's future and help our communities grow."

Blevins Asphalt's new facility includes twelve bays, a crane system, a four-post vehicle lift, a 100-foot-long wash bay, and a parts stockroom. In addition to the maintenance area, the facility also houses offices and a breakroom for the mechanics, along with new fuel storage tanks. The company's corporate headquarters is also located in Mount Vernon.

"The new building was a long time coming and will help speed up the maintenance and repair times on equipment," said Derek Stokes, Owner of Blevins Asphalt. "This is a huge win for our mechanics and construction crews and will provide new jobs."

New jobs added as part of Blevins Asphalt's expansion will pay an average wage well above the county average.

"The asphalt and construction materials industry plays a vital role in building and maintaining the infrastructure that keeps Missouri moving," said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. "Blevins Asphalt's $2.8 million investment in Mount Vernon strengthens this critical sector. It's exactly the kind of project that supports long-term economic stability and helps Missourians prosper in every corner of our state."

For this expansion, Blevins Asphalt will benefit from the Missouri Works Program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation. Blevins Asphalt is estimated to receive $28,002 through the Missouri Works Program subject to verification of program requirements.

What others are saying

"The Blevins Asphalt expansion project represents the type of locally rooted investment we want to support- bringing jobs, strengthening our growing infrastructure, and reinvesting in Mount Vernon," said Christy Beshore, Business Development Director for the Mount Vernon Area Economic Development Corporation. "Strategic use of state and local incentives helps us remain competitive while ensuring long-term economic benefits for our community. We are proud to partner with the Missouri Department of Economic Development, the City of Mount Vernon, and the Chamber of Commerce to serve both existing and new stakeholders."

"Blevins Asphalt has been a cornerstone of Mount Vernon's business community for generations," said Brittni Bates, Executive Director of the Mount Vernon Area Chamber of Commerce. "Since 1949, their company has not only provided quality jobs and supported our regional workforce, but they have also invested deeply in the people and programs that make our community strong-from youth athletics and local organizations to families across our region. Their continued growth and expansion reflects the strength of their commitment to Mount Vernon, and we are proud to see a long-standing local business continue to invest in our economy and in the future of our community."

"Blevins Asphalt's decision to expand in Mount Vernon demonstrates the long-term value of investing in our community," said Mount Vernon Mayor Jason Haymes. "This project supports job creation, strengthens our local supply chain, and generates economic activity that benefits the entire region. The City of Mount Vernon and the Mount Vernon Area Economic Development Corporation are proud to work alongside the Missouri Department of Economic Development to support companies that are committed to growing here."

About Blevins Asphalt

Blevins Asphalt has been a part of the Mount Vernon community since 1949, started by R.J. Blevins and family. The current owners, Derek and Terri Stokes, have been working for the company for over 50 years and have been owners for the last 30 years. The company also owns and operates two asphalt plants, in Carthage and Springfield, serving the road construction business in the Southwest Missouri region and other parts of the state, for over 75 years.

To learn more about Blevins Asphalt, visit blevinsasphalt.com.

About the Missouri Department of Economic Development

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri's businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.

For the latest updates on DED's current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED's website.

About the Missouri Works Program

As the state's number one incentive tool for expansion and retention, the Missouri Works Program helps businesses access capital through withholdings or tax credits to embark on facility expansions and create jobs. This program can also help businesses purchase equipment to maintain its facility in Missouri.