New mine to open, create new jobs

SULLIVAN, Ind. (WTHI) - Peabody Coal said it plans to open a massive new surface mine in southeastern Sullivan County. The mine is expected to begin operation later this year and create around 350 new jobs.

Peabody Coal, the nation's largest coal company, is no stranger to this part of Sullivan County. For years, the company operated the Hawthorn Mine near Pleasantville.

"Anytime we can create jobs in Sullivan County it's better for everybody in Sullivan County," Bill Springer of the Sullivan County Economic Development Board said.

The new mine extends into some of the old Amax Mine Property, west of Dugger. Peabody has named it the Bear Run Mine.

But not everyone is happy about the project.

"We need the jobs. I understand that, but they're bringing the railroad down here right along the highway and did away with about 11 houses there. My question is, what is going to happen to our tax base once the mine is gone," Allen Hale said.

Peabody said the coal from the mine has been contracted to two midwestern utilities under contracts that could last 17 years.