DE QUEEN, Ark. — February 20, 2026 — Bell Lumber & Pole announced plans to expand its manufacturing facility in De Queen, Arkansas, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the state while increasing production capacity for Southern Yellow Pine utility poles across the southern United States.
The expansion represents a significant capital investment and is expected to create 12 new jobs over the next two years, building on the company’s existing workforce of 17 full-time employees at the site.
“We’re excited to become part of the De Queen community and to build strong local partnerships as we grow,” said Tom Bell, President of Bell Lumber & Pole. “This investment allows us to expand capacity, strengthen our regional presence, and create opportunities that support both our customers and the people who make this work possible.”
Strengthening Domestic Supply Chains
The De Queen operation marks Bell Lumber & Pole’s first facility in Arkansas and focuses on the peeling, conditioning, and interior storage of utility poles used in critical energy and telecommunications infrastructure.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders highlighted the project as a reflection of the state’s forestry strengths and workforce advantages.
“Bell Lumber & Pole’s investment is a testament to Arkansas’ strong forestry industry, talented workforce, and thriving economy,” Sanders said. “Producing utility poles here at home strengthens domestic supply chains, supports infrastructure development, and brings new opportunity to rural Arkansas communities.”
De Queen was selected due to its strategic location and proximity to abundant timber resources, enabling the company to improve production efficiency and reduce delivery timelines for customers throughout the region.
Supporting Regional Industry Growth
At the facility, raw timber undergoes a multi-step manufacturing process that includes peeling, conditioning, and organized interior storage prior to shipment. These processes enhance durability and ensure poles meet performance standards required for utility infrastructure exposed to environmental stress.
“Arkansas is the heart of America’s wood basket, and we are excited to see continued growth in our region with Bell Lumber & Pole’s investment,” said Clint O’Neal, Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “This project will create new job opportunities while strengthening the local timber industry and regional economy.”
Local leaders emphasized the importance of collaboration in securing the investment.
“Bell Lumber & Pole’s decision to locate in De Queen speaks volumes about the strength of our workforce and community partnerships,” said De Queen Mayor Jeff Brown. “This investment brings new opportunity to our residents and reinforces De Queen as a place where industry and community grow together.”
Veronica Ozura, Economic Development Director for Sevier County and Director of the FRIENDS Foundation, added that the project reflects strong cooperation among local, regional, and state partners working toward long-term economic growth.
“Today’s announcement shows what’s possible when a community works together with intention,” Ozura said. “This investment aligns with our shared goal of creating quality jobs and lasting opportunity for Sevier County.”
About Bell Lumber & Pole
Headquartered in New Brighton, Minnesota, Bell Lumber & Pole is a fifth-generation, family-owned company providing customized wood products for utility, telecommunications, and construction industries. The company also manufactures piling, posts, and mass timber solutions.
Bell Lumber & Pole is currently hiring for multiple positions at its De Queen facility. Career information is available at https://blpole.com/company/careers.
About the Arkansas Economic Development Commission
The Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC), a division of the Arkansas Department of Commerce, works collaboratively with businesses and communities to create economic opportunities and position Arkansas as the Natural Choice for business success. Learn more at ArkansasEDC.com.
