KELOLAND News has found out new information about Smithfield Foods’ expansion in downtown Sioux Falls. 

The pork processor, formerly known as John Morrell, says it’s investing nearly $45 million into its campus. 

That includes building a facility that houses more than 8,000 hogs, as well as renovating a high-speed bacon line and a ground seasoned pork operation. 

Smithfield will also add 70 new jobs in Sioux Falls. 

The nation’s largest pork processor says this expansion will help it meet the increasing domestic demand for bacon and international demand for ground seasoned pork, a growing category in export markets.

“In the past five years, we have invested more than $73 million into our operations in South Dakota, which positively impacts the local economy. With these new projects, we’re proud to further strengthen our presence in this state,” President and CEO Kenneth M. Sullivan said in a news release. 

Smithfield is also renovating its hog barn, which will be complete in early fall 2019. 

“Export markets are key for the continued growth of all U.S. hog producers and pork processors,” said Jason Richter, president of the international group for Smithfield Foods. “This new project further positions the company to meet the demands of consumers in these key markets, benefiting our national and local economies, including creating new jobs in Sioux Falls.”

The Sioux Falls facility was built in 1909 and produces fresh pork, ready-to-cook bacon, deli meats, hot dogs and smoked hams.