Charleston Reporter

Greenville-based energy, infrastructure and real estate investment company Pacolet Milliken and Colorado environmental services company OURAY recently announced plans for a $15 million joint venture that will establish operations in Berkeley County at the Charleston International Manufacturing Center.

The venture known as HYDERA, according to a press release from Gov. Henry McMaster's office, will be located in Goose Creek. The project is expected to create 15 new jobs at the full-service International Organization for Standardization (ISO) container depot there that specializes in servicing the needs of the bulk liquids transportation industry.

According to the governor's office release, HYDERA will provide cleaning, storage, heating, repair, testing and maintenance of the ISO containers, the new location is slated to be fully operational by spring. Officials noted that storage and transportation services could be offered at the new location as soon as next month, the governor's office release said.

“Thanks to the success of our world-renowned ports, the tri-county area is full of opportunity, and companies are recognizing that at a rapid clip,” McMaster said in the release. “HYDERA is yet another company to take advantage of the potential of Berkeley County, and we are confident they will find great success.”

HYDERA President and OURAY CEO Aaron Montgomery said his firm is excited about the opportunity to expand its operations.

“When OURAY was looking to expand our service offerings to our chemical shipping and logistics customers along the East Coast, Berkeley County was a natural fit,” Montgomery said. “Berkeley County has quick access to the South Carolina port system and national rail and highway infrastructure, as well as good proximity to an expanding customer base. We are excited for the future of this region.”

Kent Fonvielle, HYDERA CEO and CIMC president, echoed Montgomery's sentiment.

“Berkeley County has proven to be a great place to invest, attract talent and grow our site,” he said. “Along with our partner OURAY, we are excited to be starting up this new company, HYDERA, to serve the growing needs of the bulk liquids market in the Charleston region.”

State Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III said he sees the partnership as a can’t lose situation for everyone involved.

“HYDERA bringing new jobs to Berkeley County is a big win for Team South Carolina and highlights the diverse business community our state has cultivated,” he said. “We thank HYDERA for their commitment and look forward to watching them grow and succeed here.”