14 News, The Tri-State's News and Weather Leader-Ribbon cutting held at Riverview Mines

Ribbon cutting held at Riverview Mines

Posted by Noah Stubbs - email

UNION CO., KY (WFIE) - A ribbon cutting was held for a new coal mine in Western Kentucky on Friday.

Production at the Riverview Mine in Union County began last month although full capacity won't be reached until the middle of next year.

When running at full capacity, the mine will be able to produce 6.4 million tons of coal per year.

The mine has estimated coal reserves of more than 105 million tons and is seen by many across Kentucky to be a boon to the local economy.

"You know, I think the best way to look at it is to look at the payroll," general manager Heath Lovell said. "We'll have 600 employees next July and the average wage is going to be $70,000. That's over $42 million a year payroll that will go a long way to helping not only the county but also the region."

The mine is located on Kentucky 1179 between Waverly and Uniontown.

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