Watco’s Efforts Help Company Find Home for Newest Facility

Kingspan, a worldwide building materials company, is bringing its operations to Stillwater, Oklahoma, and Watco played a role in helping make it happen.

Working alongside other partners, Watco helped lobby for the passage of the Strategic Industrial Development Enhancement (SIDE) Act tax credit through the Oklahoma state legislature in 2022.

The SIDE Act was established to make improvements between railroads and industrial parks. Eligible projects must either be located in a rural area or adjacent to a short line railroad, switching operation, or terminal.

“Rail access was crucial in securing the Kingspan opportunity and the Watco partnership was instrumental in its success,” said Kari Moore, economic development director for the Stillwater Chamber of Chamber. “The Chamber is so grateful for the efforts of the Watco team and look forward to an ongoing partnership as we continue to enhance the manufacturing industry in Stillwater.”

Kingspan is the largest-to-date recipient of the SIDE Tax Credit. Their Stillwater facility, located at 4115 N. Perkins Rd., is expected to begin construction next year and will be served by Watco’s Stillwater Central Railroad.

Watco Director of Industrial Development Luke Bellamy said, “We’re thrilled to have Kingspan’s newest facility call Oklahoma home, and to be able to serve them. Thank you to everyone who helped make this project possible including the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, City of Stillwater, and the Stillwater Chamber of Commerce.”