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ORANGEBURG, S.C. (WACH) -- There's good news on the economic front in Orangeburg County.  Gov. Nikki Haley announced the addition of 100 new jobs and a $10 million investment thanks to Universal Trade Solutions Inc. and Fraley & Schilling Inc. Wednesday.

The manufacturing and distribution facility will take over the 110,000-square-foot Jacobs Applied Engineering building in Orangeburg County.

“Having the right location is crucially important to the success of operations, and Orangeburg County is that great location. Orangeburg County had a building available to suit our needs, and also provided us with access to a rail spur and close proximity to a major port in Charleston. We look forward to bringing our operations online and appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials,” said John McCracken, President of Universal Trade Solutions.

The companies will have 10 metal company clients in the region.  They are working to secure automotive clients as well.

State leaders say the Port of Charleston was a big factor in the decision-making process.

“Whenever you have a company like this, rail is important because they have to be able to get their product in and out. They have to be able to get to the ports and now rail is just as important as  trucking is and we are going to continue to make sure that the resources are available. Norfolk Southern was great in dealing with this project as well,” says Governor Nikki Haley.

“Our strategic plan calls for tripling cargo moving through South Carolina’s ports over the next 20 years,” said Jim Newsome, president and CEO of the South Carolina Ports Authority. “That translates into an increasing need for this kind of private sector leadership and investment in landside infrastructure development, particularly distribution and logistics services.”

A $500,000 Rural Infrastructure Fund grant was provided by the Department of Commerce.

If you're interested in applying you can send an email or contact the Orangeburg SC Works.