Document ykXYJOxkyoG2RqDrE4GBvDdQn

PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss., Nov. 7 --* The Du Pont Company said today that detailed studies to determine suitability of a site in west Harrison County for a major new plant will begin immediately. An interest in Harrison County as a possible location for a plant to manufacture titanium dioxide (Ti02) was acknowledged recently by Du Pont. Arthur H. Ge.il, vice president and general manager of Du Font's Pigments Department, said he authorized such a study following discussions among Du Pont and Mississippi state and Gulf area officials during the last few weeks. Mr, Geil stressed that no decision to locate the plant in Harrison County has been made. Results of many evalu ations must be known to Du Pont and Mississippi officials before such a decision could be reached, he said. He identified major study areas as utilities, trans portation, manpower, and environment (including land, air, and water). Mr, Geil confirmed that investment represented by the plant when finally completed would be in excess of $100 million. The plant would employ between 500 and 600 persons, and would be built with expansion in mind, Du Pont would expect to have it operational by 1977. PA-61