Paradise was idled September 9 for the construction of a new underground access slope from the Herrin No. 11 to the Springfield No. 9 coal seams, as well as the sealing and recovery of equipment from the old No. 9 workings.
In addition, the Muhlenberg County mine’s conveyor systems, power systems and mining machinery were upgraded. All of the work is now wrapping up, the company confirmed.
“KenAmerican will return the Paradise mine to eventual full production as quickly as possible and gradually increase our employment level to operate three, and possibly four, modern continuous miner super sections in the entirely new mine with all-new or rebuilt equipment,” the company added.
Work to the new portal facilities is ongoing and is expected to be completed early next year. Among the surface projects are access roads, major intake and return air shafts, and a large manpower and equipment hoist.
Crews will also construct a bathhouse, offices, warehouse, and other associated items “to make the Paradise mine entirely new” and restore its position as the top producer in the Illinois Basin – a record general manager Mark Nelson said KenAmerican held from its mid-1990s inception until about three years ago.
"With the new excellent mining conditions, portal facilities, preparation plant, new equipment and total underground renovation, KenAmerican and Paradise will be the best mine in which to work in western Kentucky," superintendent Michael McNell said.
"Furthermore, with our very extensive, high-quality reserve base, KenAmerican's new Paradise mine will be in existence for about 30 years," Nelson added.
"This will provide stable employment and retirement opportunities for our employees."
KenAmerican plans to hire new employees for Paradise and is inviting resumes for consideration. It did not indicate how many new workers would be hired.
