A diversified base of businesses and industries comprise the economy of Park Hills, Leadington and St. Francois County. Prominent manufacturers of glass and plastics, a leading dairy distributor and a major mechanical contracting firm are mixed with specialty shops, educational institutions and health care facilities. A gradually growing population has also resulted in a diverse workforce, led by highly educated and dedicated employees.
The dynamic and progressive economic vitality of the area is supported by a strategic location in southeast Missouri, just outside of St. Louis. This advantage is coupled with the availability of first-rate education and workforce training programs, high-quality utilities, an excellent transportation network and affordable business sites.
Area business and industries include several reputable, long-standing companies that distribute products and services not only locally and nationally, but also worldwide. The Park Hills Industrial Park is served by a line of the Union Pacific railroad with current tenants including Piramal Glass, MOCAP, Lee Mechanical, Raider Mechanical, Bulk Tank, Missouri Department of Transportation, The St. Francois County Joint Communication Center and the Missouri Job Center.
With a boost of the local economy in mind, a new development, Flat River Commons, is positioned to be an ideal spot for business relocation and expansion within the county. Local, state and government dollars are funding the infrastructure that includes immediate access to U.S. Highway 67, a new road with new connecting hiking, biking and off-road vehicle trailheads going into St. Joe State Park and a large area for recreational, commercial and residential developments. The area around the Leadington exit at Highway 67 is also experiencing business development and renewal that supports community.
Businesses are also well served by various local, state and national organizations, notably the Park Hills-Leadington Chamber of Commerce. The organization has served as a supportive and informational business resource since the merging of the Park Hills Chamber and Leadington Chamber in 2005. The Chamber provides its membership with unmatched benefits, including referrals, marketing and networking opportunities, promotional options and local business information.
The organization also sponsors numerous community events, including the county’s largest trivia competition – Sweetheart Trivia Night, the Annual Firecracker Run, a city-wide yard sale featuring nearly 100 sales, a disc golf tournament at the city’s new disc golf course and the annual Christmas parade that travels through both cities.