Steel Warehouse To Expand, Add Jobs

plans to construct a 60,000-square-foot addition at its Oak Creek facility, 535 W. Forest Hill Ave.

The addition is expected to create an additional 20 to 25 jobs over the next year, according to a letter from the company to the Oak Creek Plan Commission, which unanimously approved the proposal Tuesday night. About 40 employees work at the building now.

"The project came about because of an opportunity for Steel Warehouse to provide a certain product to its Oak Creek customer, Russell Metals, as well as several other customers in the area," the letter states.

Co-owner James Lerman told the commission a large space was needed to hold the equipment and materials necessary. The expansion helps Steel Warehouse meet the demand for its customers in Wisconsin, he said.

As part of the expansion, Steel Warehouse will purchase a 2.75-acre parcel from the city. Some wetlands issues have to be worked out before the start of construction, which is expected in May.

"It's always great news to have businesses expanding in Oak Creek," Mayor Al Foeckler said. "Congratulations that you're able to expand, and thank you for choosing to expand in Oak Creek and bringing additional jobs."

The Indiana-based company is a family-owned steel processing and distribution company. The Oak Creek facility was built in 1975.