OAKBROOK TERRACE, ILL. — McCain Foods USA has started construction on a 170,000-square-foot expansion at its potato processing facility in Othello, Wash.

The $300 million project is estimated to bring 180 new jobs to area residents and will require an additional 11,000 acres to be sourced from Washington potato growers, according to the company.

“McCain Foods has a rich history of producing high quality food right here in Washington," said Dale McCarthy, vice-president of integrated supply chain at McCain Foods North America. “This $300 million expansion will deepen our roots and commitment in this great state and grow the potato industry for years to come.”

The company recently expanded its distribution center in Burley, Idaho. It also completed infrastructure upgrades at its Portage la Prairie and Carberry, Man., facilities. In July, the company announced plans to build its first french fry facility in Brazil.