'400 jobs back to Oklahoma:' Dollar Tree distribution center returning to Marietta after EF-4 tornado

Dollar Tree announced Thursday plans for a new distribution center in Marietta, nearly one year after an EF-4 destroyed the facility and several homes in the community.

The distribution center was in the direct path of an EF4 tornado that also devastated the surrounding Marietta community.

SEE ALSO: Marietta Dollar Tree Distribution Center Demolished By EF-4 Tornado

Though none of the hundreds of workers at the center were hurt, the company later announced the plant would not be rebuilt.

RELATED: Marietta Dollar Tree Distribution Center Closes; Hundreds Left Without Work

However, on Thursday, the company said it had changed its mind.

"This region and the Marietta community are critically important in our supply chain network and will be essential to our future growth," said Executive Vice President Mike Kindy.

The new 1,000,000 sq. ft. facility is expected to serve 700 Dollar Tree stores across the West and Southwest parts of the U.S.

"The opening of the Marietta distribution center will bring 400 jobs back to Oklahoma,” Gov. Kevin Stitt said in a statement. "The reinvestment in the community is a testament to the importance of building strong local relationships and furthers our reputation as a business-friendly state,” he added.

Dollar Tree, Inc., says the new facility is expected to be fully operational by 2027.