U.S. Steel said its Board of Directors has approved funding for the full USD 350 mln blast furnace reline project at its Gary Works facility, a move aimed at securing the long-term ironmaking capacity of the plant.
The relining of Blast Furnace No. 14, the largest of four furnaces at Gary Works, is critical maintenance required to ensure continued production and meet customer commitments. The furnace produces iron used in high-strength steel for applications ranging from automotive to construction, using iron ore pellets sourced from the company’s Minnesota operations.
In parallel, U.S. Steel is advancing major upgrades at the hot strip mill and steel shop, where slabs are converted into coils and iron is processed into steel. These projects are expected to cost around USD 200 mln and are intended to further enhance production capabilities and competitiveness.
The company said it is working with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management to secure the required permits, having submitted air and stormwater construction plans in December. Once operational, the combined investments are expected to improve steelmaking efficiency and increase capacity.
U.S. Steel added that these projects build on broader momentum across the company, supported by Nippon Steel’s advanced technology and commitment to invest USD 11 bln by the end of 2028, with shared expertise accelerating upgrades and strengthening capabilities nationwide.
Founded in 1901, U.S. Steel operates across the U.S. and Central Europe. Nippon Steel, Japan’s largest steelmaker, completed its USD 14.9 bln acquisition of the company in June 2025.
