Corsa Coal Corp. is opening the Acosta Deep underground mine in May. The opening of the new mine is expected to bring in 70 to 100 jobs.

Thursday, coal industry leaders met at the Somerset Country Club to talk about the industry and how President Trump’s administration could bring more jobs back to the region.

The coal industry is looking to expand in Somerset County and new coal mine projects are underway, especially with the support expected to come from President Trump’s administration.  

Thursday, the White House is expected to ease current regulations on the coal industry.

“Had Trump not won the election, a lot of those people would have closed the door on investing in coal, which would be a tremendous pity not only for this region but for the country,” said George Dethlefsen, CEO of Corsa Coal Corp.

“Well, in Pennsylvania, we are the third largest coal producing state in the nation. Coal is really kind of the heartbeat of a lot of  our local economies and of the state,” said Rachel Gleason, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Coal Alliance.

The Executive Director of the Somerset Chamber of Commerce, Ron Aldom, said people in Somerset County understand how the growth of the coal industry could affect the area. 

“A lot of the people here today are in what I would call ‘the indirect jobs’: trucking, engineering companies, anyone who supports the industry. There are statements that one coal job, one mining job, produces four to five other jobs in the community, That’s true. There’s no question. It filters its way down,” Aldom said.

At a luncheon to discuss the coal industry, leaders were optimistic about creating sustainable jobs and how they could help the entire community. 

“Coal is such an important piece of our economy. Us producing coal at low cost helps consumers’ energy bill. Makes your car ride cheaper, your plane ride cheaper, makes your utility bill cheaper. Those are all virtuous, noble goals that we’re trying to do for this area,” Dethlefsen said.

The Pennsylvania Coal Alliance said this year, they hope to reclaim two abandoned coal mines in the area.