Economic Developments

Smith Mountain Lake has been selected as a host fishery for the Bassmaster Elite Series tournaments which will be held in 2009 and 2010.  The tournaments will be hosted by Franklin and Bedford Counties.The Elite series is the most prestigious and competitive circuit in professional bass fishing and the tournaments are televised on The Bassmasters Show, which airs on Saturdays on ESPN2.  Selection of Smith Mountain Lake as the site of these events was made by BASS, which is based in Celebration, FL.  Both events will be called “Blue Ridge Brawls” and will be headquartered at Parkway Marina in Moneta.

“Securing two of these prestigious events is a big accomplishment for the region,” noted Kathleen Guzi, Bedford County Administrator.  Ms. Guzi noted,   “Additionally, these events represent an outstanding, and convenient, recreational opportunity for area residents to view the world’s greatest bass anglers doing what they do best.”

The first event will occur on April 23-26, 2009 at Parkway Marina in Moneta, Virginia.  This was the site of the very successful 2007 Blue Ridge Brawl won by then rookie angler Casey Ashley of South Carolina.  “April is an incredible month for bass fishing at Smith Mountain Lake.  In April, we look forward to welcoming our friends from ESPN and Bassmasters back to what has quickly become their Virginia home, Smith Mountain Lake,” commented Richard E. Huff, II Franklin County Administrator.

The second event will be the 2010 Elite End of the Season Tournament on August 12-15.  As the last event in the Elite series, this will feature the crowning of the Angler of the Year.  All BASS events receive significant national media coverage, but hosting the last event of the year not only receives the tournament coverage, but media reports on the Angler of the Year race, which adds to the exposure more than other tournament coverage. 

“The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries staff has done a tremendous job in building up a high quality black bass fishery on Smith Mountain Lake.  Selection of the Lake for these tournaments validates the dedication of DGIF staff and Virginia anglers that made SML a world class tournament fishing destination,” Ward Burton, DGIF 5th District Commissioner.

The total economic impact projection for these two events is well over $2 million.  The events, and Lake, will be showcased on the ESPN family of media outlets including The Bassmasters Show, espnoutdoors.com, Bassmaster.com, and in the BASS publications: Bassmaster Magazine and BASS Times.  BASS is owned by ESPN.  Hundreds of additional media outlets, both domestic and international, cover the Elite Series.  Fishing is the third most popular outdoor recreational activity in Virginia and black bass are the number one pursued game species on Smith Mountain Lake.

“BASS’s return to SML is directly attributed to success of the 2007 event that featured tremendous spectator crowds and enthusiasm at the weigh-ins, the support of Parkway Marina staff , volunteers from the Virginia Bass Federation, and significant buy-in from our valley’s only Fortune 500 headquarters company, Advance Auto Parts,” noted Michael Burnette, Franklin County Tourism Manager.

“Competition for these events is fierce.  Winning these events for our region validates what we’ve been saying for a long time – that the Smith Mountain Lake area is the best place in Virginia to mix big business and big fun – especially when it involves fishing,”  Scott D. Martin, Director Franklin County Commerce & Leisure Services

More information on these events and their schedule of activities will be coming out over the next couple of months.  These events mark the fifth and sixth times that ESPN/Bassmasters have visited Smith Mountain Lake.  The first Bassmasters event hosted at SML was the 2004 Northern Open.  These events will again be free and open to the public.  A large outdoor expo will be included to further add to the visitor experience at both events.

The Art Museum of Western Virginia on June 12 unveiled a new distinctive logo that will represent the institution from this point forward.  The institution also will change its name as of that date to the Taubman Museum of Art, in recognition of the remarkable gift made to support the Art Museum by U.S. Ambassador Nicholas F. and Mrs. Eugenia L. Taubman.

The logo for the Taubman Museum of Art reflects the strong flow of the new museum through the visualization of the atrium peak as well as the symbolic emergence of the mountains.  The logo incorporates a steel grey color representing the stainless steel material used in the structure and a zinc patina color representing the zinc material used throughout the building.  The typography used in the logo conveys that the brand is clean, well organized and efficient.  The logo evokes an overall elegant, bold and timeless feel. 

 “The new logo acknowledges our region and history, while at the same time reflecting the dynamic institution that the Taubman Museum of Art will be,” said Georganne Bingham, executive director of the museum.  “It is modern and understated, stable yet energetic.  We are thrilled to begin using it.”

The museum also announced that the new building’s dramatic atrium will be named in honor of the City of Roanoke’s $4 million and land contribution to the capital project.   The Board of Trustees presented a resolution to Roanoke Mayor C. Nelson Harris.

Construction for the new museum is on schedule.  The building’s interior is more than 90% complete and the exterior is nearly 95% complete.  Installation of the zinc panels on the north elevation is finished.  Floors are being installed throughout the building.  The travertine marble floor is being installed in the first floor auditorium and atrium, and maple flooring is being installed and finished in the second floor gallery spaces and central hall.  Drywall installation continues in certain first floor spaces including the café and coatroom.  Painting continues throughout the building and is nearly complete on the second floor.  The second floor luminous ceiling has been installed in American art galleries A and B.

The Art Museum, located in downtown Roanoke, features nineteenth and twentieth century American art, decorative arts, modern and contemporary art, and works on paper, and presents exhibitions of both regional and national significance.  Tours, gallery talks, family days, special events, classes, and camps are part of the Art Museum’s regular programming.  The Art Museum is accredited by the American Association of Museums (AAM).

Scheduled to open to the public in the fall of 2008, the new Taubman Museum of Art building will be a dramatic composition of flowing, layered forms in steel, patinated zinc and high-performance glass paying sculptural tribute to the famous Blue Ridge Mountains that
provide Roanoke’s backdrop and shape the region’s spirit.  The 81,000 square foot structure designed by Los Angeles architect Randall Stout will be the first purpose-built art museum ever constructed in Roanoke.  The new facility will house significantly larger exhibition and education spaces, a flexible theater/programming space, a multi-purpose auditorium, a research library, a book and gift shop, a studio classroom, a works on paper study room, and a café with indoor and outdoor seating.  All exhibition and education spaces will be wired to provide real-time, interactive distance learning experiences via high speed network to classrooms across the region and the state.

New recreational opportunities are on the way for the Roanoke Region. Roanoke County officials broke ground June 10 on the Roanoke Valley’s first multi-generational recreation center. When completed in late 2009, the facility will be located at the intersection of Valleypointe Parkway and Woodhaven Road near Interstate-81. The $30 million facility will provide recreational opportunities, programs and meeting space for the community.

Roanoke County’s Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department realized the need for a new, multi-use recreation center as demand for recreational opportunities, organized leisure activities, senior and youth programs, and meeting space increased in the county over the past decade.  In 2006, Roanoke County surveyed citizens about their recreational needs as part of the Parks, Recreation, and Tourism master planning process.  The department also conducted a number of public meetings to discuss the results of the master planning process with county residents. The multi-gen center concept brings together many of the community’s top-rated recreational needs as identified by the master plan.

Roanoke County’s multi-gen center will meet the needs of persons of all ages, abilities and incomes.  The design of Roanoke County’s facility was developed by First Choice Public Private Partners, LLC under the guidelines of the Public Private Education Facilities and Infrastructure Act (PPEA).  It will feature two gymnasiums, three multi-purpose program rooms, two aerobic/dance rooms, an indoor walking track, fitness area, 1/8 mile indoor walking track, teen game room, aquatic birthday party room, an indoor family leisure pool, and outdoor family leisure pool with a small lazy river, slides, and water playground.

The 96,000-square-foot multi-gen center will serve as the anchor for a new signature business park owned and operated by English Construction.  The entire complex is strategically located at the intersection of Interstates 81 and 581 and will provide easy access for county citizens and prospective businesses alike.  In addition, the recreation center will serve as an attraction for sports marketing – both in the facilities it will make available for national tournaments and in the opportunities for leisure it will offer to visitors.

McAirlaid’s Vliesstoffe GmbH & Co. KG on March 11 officially opened its North American headquarters in the Franklin County Commerce Center south of Rocky Mount.  The German-based company makes non-woven composite materials for absorbency end uses. It announced plans to locate in the Roanoke Valley and invest $85 million in June 2006.

Gov. Timothy M. Kaine joined company and local officials in cutting a ribbon of McAirlaid’s product to open the first phase of the planned 300,000-square-foot building.  It is the first foreign-owned company in Franklin County, according to CEO Alexander Maksimow.  Gov. Kaine called the company’s move to Virginia one of the most significant economic development projects of his administration.

McAirlaid’s was founded in 1997 and is headquartered in Steinfurt, Germany with manufacturing facilities located in Berlingerode and Heiligenstadt, Germany, and now, Rocky Mount. The company is a privately-held manufacturer of the latest innovative technology in non-woven absorbent materials used in a variety of products in the healthcare and medical/medical device, food and hygiene industries.  When the full build-out of the project is complete, the company plans to employ 165 people in Franklin County.

The Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership has named Beth Doughty as new executive director.  Doughty, executive director in the 1990s, has been president of the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce since 1999.

The Partnership, established in 1983, recently completed a successful campaign that raised more than $6,500,000 for an expanded program of work to include image building, asset development, and benchmarking in addition to traditional industrial recruitment.   Phil Sparks will remain with the Partnership as assistant director for business development.

“The Partnership conducted a six-month search with applicants from around the country to find the best person to lead us in this new direction,” said Robert C. Lawson, Jr., president of the Partnership Board of Directors.  “Beth Doughty is qualified and well-respected.  Her demonstrated record of success and understanding of the new program of work was stronger than anyone we considered.  Her experience in this region, reputation, and relationships she has built will give the new program of work a running start.”

“I am delighted to be able to work on an expanded program for the Partnership,” said Doughty.  “I agree that traditional economic development programs are too narrow in their focus.  Modern economic development should complement industrial recruitment with other activities that promote this region as an enviable place to live, work, and play. 

This is an opportunity to be a national leader in the modern practice of economic development.  I look forward to developing a plan and quickly getting to work.”

As executive director from 1992-1999, Doughty developed and implemented a program of work that resulted in 57 expansions and locations representing more that $570 million in investment and more than 14,000 primary and secondary jobs.  

As Chamber president, she has operating responsibility for a 1,400-member, 11-employee business organization with an annual budget of $1.1 million.  She also oversees the regional small business development center, nonprofit development foundation, and for-profit development corporation.  During her tenure, the Chamber has developed programs such as its annual small business awards, Economic Summit, Newvaconnects young professional’s organization, and workforce development programs for public school teachers and college students.

A graduate of the University of Virginia, Doughty is a former president of the Virginia Economic Developers Association and received that organization’s Cardinal Award in 2002 for service and achievement in economic development.  She has taught at economic development institutes at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Virginia Tech, and in the Czech Republic.

Arkay Packaging Corporation, printer and manufacturer of premium high-quality folding cartons and packaging, broke ground February 7 for a 62,000-square foot, $4.5 million expansion, essentially doubling the size of its Botetourt County facility.  The expansion effort comes on the heels of Arkay’s 86th anniversary in the printing/packaging business.  Entering into another milestone year, company Chairman and CEO Mitchell Kaneff, and Chairman Emeritus and father, Howard Kaneff were a part of the ceremony, along with the New York and Roanoke Operations Teams.

“In this challenging economic time, we are proud and excited to be growing in Virginia.  This expansion project will allow us to enhance our manufacturing and distribution operations to more effectively accommodate our valued customers.  Some of our prestigious clients include Chanel, Coty, Elizabeth Arden, Estee Lauder, Johnson & Johnson, Mary Kay, and Procter and Gamble,” said CEO Kaneff.

“I wouldn’t be here with this shovel in my hand if not for the effort and performance of this amazing team in Roanoke, Hauppauge, NY and New York City.”  The expansion and capital expenditure in additional equipment is expected to create job opportunities for the area in the near future. Building construction and utilization of the addition is expected for October 2008.

Arkay opened its Roanoke Valley manufacturing facility in 1996 in Botetourt County’s EastPark Commerce Center and expanded in December 2004. Approximately  170 people currently are employed at Arkay.

TMEIC GE, internationally based integrator of drives automation systems and one of the Roanoke Valley’s largest employers of high technology automation engineers, announced January 30 that it will move from the Salem location it currently shares with GE Energy Controls and Power Electronics to the former headquarters of the Atlantic Mutual Companies, at 1325 Electric Rd. in Roanoke County.

Renovations have begun on the new 85,000 sq ft. space, which will house offices, meeting rooms, training facilities, test labs and support service areas for the company’s nearly 300 North American employees. Relocation is expected to begin in the next 60 days and should be completed by mid-summer.

“TMEIC GE has experienced very rapid growth in the past five years, adding 58 new employees since 2006 and we simply outgrew our former location,” said Dale Guidry, President and CEO. “Fortunately, we found the perfect building located just a mile from our previous home.”

“Virginia is a very friendly business state, and the Roanoke Valley has been an exceptional location, first for GE and now for our joint venture,” says Guidry. “We’ve been part of the community for over 50 years and hope to continue this relationship for years to come.” “We are thrilled that TMEIC GE has chosen Roanoke County for this significant relocation and expansion,” said Elmer Hodge, Roanoke County Administrator. “Retaining and growing a workforce of 300 high paying technology based jobs, with these tremendously successful international companies is great news for Roanoke County. We are delighted to have partnered with TMEIC GE in planning for future growth at this new location, while at the same time returning a fantastic and well-known facility into a highly productive reuse.”

TMEIC GE was formed between 2000 and 2003 as a joint venture between Toshiba, Mitsubishi, and GE, which operated a drives system business for more than seventy years. The TMEIC joint venture between Toshiba and Mitsubishi, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, holds the majority ownership of TMEIC GE. This move in no way will lessen the close business relationship that TMEIC GE maintains with GE businesses across North America and globally.

The company builds drives and automation systems which provide control for the production of metals and related products, paper, cement, cranes, oil and gas, mining, and other industries. TMEIC and TMEIC GE are the leading suppliers of drives and automation for the many new hot strip steel mills globally and has offices around the globe.

Arkay Packaging Corporation today honored 22 graduates of its Apprenticeship Training Initiatives.  The company created an Apprenticeship Program for its Corrugated and Pressroom departments with a grant from the Virginia Department of Business Assistance.  The programs came out of a recognition of the excellent work values and operational capabilities of its employees, and a desire to create an opportunity for employees to be promoted from within.

The Apprenticeship Program allows Arkay to develop a pool of highly skilled employees who can master the techniques required on the latest computerized equipment available.  The company credits the program with helping retain a talented workforce, encouraging employees to think of their job as a career, and allowing the company to experiment with cutting-edge products while maintaining the quality their customers expect.

Arkay opened its Roanoke Valley manufacturing facility in 1996 in Botetourt County’s EastPark Commerce Center and expanded in December 2004.  Arkay strives to develop practical succession plans, mentoring and training programs, and subsequently, provide opportunity for advancement within the organization.  An additional expansion is planned for 2008.
 
To date, 22 employees have gone through the Apprenticeship Programs, each spending more than 120 hours in the classroom and at least 2,000 hours of independent study and on-the-job training.  At the same time, Arkay has contracted with Professional Project Management, Inc. to institute a Sheetfed Offset Press Training Program to certify pressroom personnel through the Printing Industries of America/Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (PIA/GATF) and prepare the Press operators for the national certification exam.  Arkay felt the training would allow its Press operators to expand their knowledge base and enhance their career in the printing industry, which would in turn add value and quality to Arkay’s products. Press operators who completed the training were eligible to take the national certification test, which acknowledges their standing as a Certified Master Printer.

The Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership announced November 1 the results of a yearlong, $6.5 million fund raising campaign – Partners Investing for Prosperity. The announcement was made at the organization’s annual meeting.

Partners Investing for Prosperity, co-chaired by Bob Lawson, retired CEO and President of SunTrust, and Dan Carson, Vice-President of Appalachian Power, was created as a cooperative program between the Roanoke Business Council and the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership to raise the necessary funds to improve the region’s economic sustainability.

Local government and business leaders recognized the need to increase the population growth, especially in the “young professional” category. Population growth is a telling statistic about the economic health of an area; the Roanoke Valley’s growth is currently stagnant.

The Partnership to date has raised $6,754,225, exceeding the goal by more than $250,000. The nine local governments that make up the Partnership have committed funding of $3.25 million over the next five years. The balance of the funds is from commitments from the private sector to make annual donations over the next five years.

Bob Lawson is delighted with the results. “Exceeding our goal with these kinds of numbers reaffirms to me that the people and businesses in the Roanoke Valley are ready for a change and they are willing to invest significant dollars to make sure it happens.”

The Partners Investing for Prosperity campaign had a quiet launch in February as The Partnership and campaign board members began working with local governments to secure commitments for the $3.25 million public portion of the fund. The private sector campaign began in earnest in May. By mid-June, the fund had already reached $5.6 million in commitments.

The plan for using the funds is divided into four segments. Business Growth will continue to recruit new businesses and promote entrepreneurship as well as fostering the growth of existing businesses. Asset Development will increase and improve the region’s “quality of life” amenities in order to attract young professionals to the area. Image Building will continually deliver good news about the area to change current perceptions. A Strategic Plan will create a regional economic strategy, plan and execute sustainable marketing efforts and report on performance.

The Partnership will work in collaboration with other regional groups to maintain a strong focus on the end result – growth and prosperity for the Roanoke Valley.

“Growth is a necessity to maintain economic viability,” says Dan Carson. “We are losing good people to other communities in Virginia that have figured out how to improve their offerings and how to market the whole package of what an area can offer. Charlottesville, Lynchburg, Richmond all are experiencing higher growth. There is no reason we can’t do the same in Roanoke. We have an aggressive plan to use these funds to create a better ‘package’ that will appeal to people and businesses.”

Synchrony Inc. has expanded into a new facility in Roanoke County's ValleyTech Park, which will allow the company to greatly increase the scale of its manufacturing operations. Synchrony specializes in the development and production of magnetic bearings, controls and power systems for high-speed rotating machinery. The new facility also features additional space for research and development activities.

The company will invest about $1.2 million in new equipment and upgrades to the building. Included in the facility are work cells for the manufacture of its magnetic bearings, integrated drive trains and electrical control systems. Additional space is devoted to quality assurance, including automated metrology instruments, and fixtures for testing its products at high rotational speeds. The new facility has a total of 58,000 square feet -- much larger than the 11,600 sqaure feet in Synchrony's existing facility, which it has occupied since 2000. Synchrony will consolidate all operations into the new building within six months.

Synchrony currently employs 28 full-time employees, most of whom are engineers and technicians associated with its research and development activities. The company expects to double its workforce in the next 12 months. About half of those new workers will be technicians for the manufacturing operations.

"This is an important milestone for us because as we move our technology out of the laboratory and into the marketplace, it ensures that we can deliver our products in the large quantities and at the high quality levels required by our customers," said Dr. Victor Iannello, president and CEO. "We also can achieve the economies of scale that allow us to supply our products in a competitive manner."

Synchrony has been located in Roanoke County since its establishment in 1993, and has received about $9 million in research contracts from the US Department of Defense, NASA and commercial companies such as Rolls Royce. In February 2006, it announced that it had received a $5 million investment from NewVa Capital Partners LP and affiliates of Third Security LLC, all of Radford, VA, that it would use to develop and market its technology.

The Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership announced May 2 that it is three-quarters of the way to its $6.5 million fundraising goal.  The five-year capital campaign, named Partners Investing for Prosperity, seeks to raise $3.25 million from both the business and government sectors. Pledges received to date total more than $5.1 million.

The Partnership launched the campaign earlier this year as a way to promote the growth of the regional economy. The region’s economy is lagging when measured by key metrics such as population growth and per capita income. The Partnership’s plan is to raise the annual population growth rate from 0.5 percent to 1.2 percent and to increase the per capita income by 15 percent.

An important role is played by the Business Council, a forum for business in NewVa, which is currently chaired by Dr. Ed Murphy, CEO of the Carilion Clinic. By written agreement, the Business Council is responsible for raising the money from the business community and also appoints about half the directors to the Executive Committee of the Partnership. The agreement was reached as a way to increase the business sector’s participation in the financing and governance of the Partnership.

The increased funding will allow the organization to:

• Develop new strategies to market the region to industrial and service businesses
• Market the region to recruit knowledge workers and high income individuals
• Diversify the region’s mix of retail establishments and entertainment venues
• Facilitate the formation and expansion of new businesses, especially those with high-growth potential
• Provide the leadership that develops and prioritizes new strategies and evaluates the economic performance of the region.

The Partnership’s new program of work, unveiled at the same time, will fall into four broad categories. Business Growth, to recruit new businesses, foster entrepreneurship, and grow existing businesses; Asset Development, to increase the region’s amenities in order to attract and retain young professionals; Image Building, to recruit people, money, and ideas to the region; and Strategic Development & Metrics to create and facilitate a regional strategy and measure our progress.

“For the past 23 years, the Partnership has built a record of success, thanks to the support of the business and government sectors,” said Robert C. Lawson, president and CEO of SunTrust Bank, who is serving as a campaign chairman. 
“Now the business and government sectors are coming together to help the organization evolve to meet the region’s new challenges.”

“The same spirit of cooperation and shared vision that created the Partnership in 1983 is fueling this effort to make the Roanoke Valley an unmatched location in which to live, work, play and grow a business,” said R. Daniel Carson, Jr., vice president of Appalachian Power Company, who is serving as the campaign’s other co-chairman.

When it is concluded in early summer, more than 671 area companies will have been contacted.

Smorgon Steel Group Ltd., an Australian steel producer, announced November 28 today that it will invest about $25 million to open its first North American manufacturing facility in Botetourt County.  The company will occupy the 124,000-square-foot former Connex building in Troutville.  The new facility, which will manufacture LiteSteel™ beam (LSB) for the residential and commercial building industry, will employ 55 people.    Virginia successfully competed against North Carolina for the project.

LSB™ is a significant advancement in patented steel technology using a process that delivers a unique dimensional shape providing maximum structural performance.  LiteSteel™ beam, unveiled in 2004 in Australia has proven to be very popular with builders, architects and engineers.  LSB™ can be used in place of other structural beams;  wood, composite or steel. Choosing LSB™ provides a total installed cost advantage over hot rolled structural steel beams.  LSB™ is destined for the residential and commercial building industry in North America.

Founded in 1982, Smorgon Steel is a vertically integrated Australian steel company, with a major presence in metal recycling, steel making and specialty steel products.  It is a leading supplier of steel products in its key markets.  This major investment in Botetourt County adds to Smorgon Steel’s presence in Virginia.  The Company has a metal recycling operation in Chesapeake and facilities in two other states.

“This is an important investment for the company and we went to great lengths to understand the market and select the right manufacturing location” said Doug Roem, General Manager of Smorgon Steel LiteSteel™ Technologies.  “Botetourt County, Virginia provides a skilled manufacturing workforce and outstanding infrastructure for our operation.  We received excellent support and advice from the State and County representatives, and we look forward to a long term future in Virginia.”

“We were very impressed by the business plan provided by Smorgon Steel during the recruitment process,” said Wendy Wingo, Chair of the Botetourt County Board of Supervisors.  “We look forward to partnering with Smorgon to help them succeed in their first U.S. new construction venture.”  This is the third major announcement in Botetourt County this year. Last month, Altec Industries announced an expansion, and Dynax America expanded in April.

“This is a significant announcement for the entire Roanoke Valley, said Phillip F. Sparks, Executive Director of the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership.  “It is proof positive that the region can compete on the global stage.”  Smorgon Steel is the second international company to choose the Roanoke Valley this year. In May, McAirlaid’s Vliesstoffe GmbH & Co. KG, a German manufacturer, located in Franklin County.
 
The company was aided in its decision by Botetourt County, the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. Governor Timothy M. Kaine approved a $375,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist Botetourt County with the project.  Botetourt County will provide a local match of $275,000.  The company also qualifies for rail access funding from the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance also will support the project with training assistance through its Workforce Services Jobs Investment Program.  The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality assisted in the Brownfields redevelopment of the site.

Altec Industries announced October 18 that it will expand its manufacturing and final assembly facility in the Botetourt Center at Greenfield.  Altec manufactures and sells truck-mounted mobile equipment for the electric utility, telecommunications, tree care and contractor industries.  The company plans to acquire an additional 14 acres of property adjacent to its existing facility while investing $3 million and adding 100 new jobs.

"The team at Altec values our relationship with Botetourt County and the surrounding community," said Jeff Emry, Director of Operations for Altec.  "Our facility is in a centralized location along the East Coast with an excellent transportation system and a dedicated work force possessing a solid work ethic.  Altec's Botetourt plant was the logical choice for expansion to help meet the increases manufacturing capacity requirements of the company."

"Altec has not only been an excellent addition to Botetourt County's business base, but also has been very involved in community affairs, said Wendy Wingo, Chair of the Botetourt County Board of Supervisors.

Altec is based in Birmingham, AL and is the world's leading manufacturer of aerial devices, digger derricks and specialized truck-mounted mobile equipment.  It has 34 manufacturing, sales and service facilities throughout North America and sells equipment in more than 100 countries around the world.  Altec opened its Botetourt County plant in 2001 and currently employs approximately 200 associates there.

This is the second major industrial expansion announced in Botetourt County in 2006.  In April, Dynax America announced that it was expanding in the EastPark Commerce Center.

MW Manufacturers Inc., Franklin County’s largest employer, announced June 22 that it will invest $23 million to expand its Rocky Mount headquarters and manufacturing facility.  The company, which produces and distributes window and door products for the residential construction industry, will create 175 new jobs.  Virginia successfully competed against New Jersey and North Carolina for the project.

MW Manufacturers is headquartered in Rocky Mount and employs 2,500 associates, 1,400 of whom are at the Rocky Mount facilities.  Founded in 1939, MW has expanded on a rich tradition in handcrafted millwork to become a major manufacturer of classic wood, clad and all-vinyl windows.  A May 2003 expansion moved its extruded plastic component products line to Rocky Mount and created 130 jobs.  In addition to the local plants, MW operates manufacturing and distribution facilities in Fayetteville, NC, Hammonton, NJ and Tupelo, MS. The company’s brands, including Freedom, Classic, Jefferson, Twinseal, and Patriot, are sold in building materials dealers and home centers throughout the eastern United States.

“The expansion of our Rocky Mount facilities reflects our continued commitment to Franklin County and to the people who make our success possible,” said Lynn Morstad, President of MW Manufacturers Inc. “This funding will effectively supplement the growth and capacity needs of MW while providing additional employment for our region.”

“With more than 1,400 employees in Franklin County, MW is very important to our local economy.  Their employees, management team and owners continue to be leaders in our community and we are proud that they choose to grow their company where they started more than 60 years ago,” said Wayne Angell, Chair of the Franklin County Board of Supervisors. “Today’s announcement pushes Franklin County over the $100 million mark in new investments since May. Our community’s workforce clearly is providing businesses with the advantages they need to be successful in the global market place.”
 
“The County and Town were pleased to assist MW in selecting Rocky Mount for their $23 million expansion.  We thank MW President Lynn Morstad for his commitment to our community and we look forward to working with his team to provide them with the support they need to continue their phenomenal success,” said Mark Newbill, Mayor of Rocky Mount.

The company was aided in its decision by Franklin County, the Town of Rocky Mount, the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership.   Governor Timothy M. Kaine approved a $100,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist Franklin County with the project.  The Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission approved $100,000 in Tobacco Region Opportunity Funds for the project. The company qualifies for rail access funding from the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation.  This is the second major industrial announcement in Franklin County in as many months. In May, McAirlaid’s, a German manufacturer, announced plans to invest $85 million in its North American headquarters and manufacturing facility.

McAirlaid’s Vliesstoffe GmbH & Co. KG, a German manufacturer of non-woven composite materials for absorbency end uses, announced May 11 that it will invest $85 million to open its first North American manufacturing facility and corporate headquarters in Franklin County’s Commerce Center.  The new facility, which will use the company’s patented method to produce non-woven material without chemicals or glues, will employ 160 people. Virginia successfully competed against Kentucky for the project.

McAirlaid’s Vliesstoffe GmbH & Co. KG, headquartered in Steinfurt, Germany with manufacturing facilities located in Berlingerode and Heiligenstadt, Germany, is a privately-held manufacturer of the latest innovative technology in non-woven absorbent materials used in a variety of products in the healthcare and medical/medical device, food and hygiene industries.

“Franklin County’s commitment to education through the public school system and job training programs, coupled with an existing workforce of highly motivated people with a strong work ethic, were key factors in McAirlaid’s site selection, said Alexander Maksimow, CEO of McAirlaid’s Vliesstoffe.  “In combination with an emphasis on improving quality of life with recreational opportunities, conservation of the area’s natural beauty, and an equitable tax structure, Franklin County is a natural fit for McAirlaid’s.”

“Today’s announcement marks the largest investment in Franklin County by an international corporation, and demonstrates our community’s ability to successfully complete inthe global marketplace,” said Wayne Angell, Chair of the Franklin County Board of Supervisors. “McAirlaid’s corporate presence and highly technical fabrication processes in Franklin County will bring significant diversification to our region’s employment and tax bases. Further, the company’s record of being a strong corporate citizen at their European sites convinces us that they will be an outstanding addition to our community.”

“This is a significant announcement for the entire Roanoke Valley, said Phillip F. Sparks, Executive Director of the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership.  “It demonstrates the region’s desirability as a location for life sciences-based manufacturers.”

The company was aided in its decision by Franklin County, the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. In addition to local incentives of approximately $2.5 million and 30 acres at the Commerce Center,  Governor Timothy M. Kaine approved a $500,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist Franklin County with the project.  The Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission approved $500,000 in Tobacco Region Opportunity Funds for the project. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance also will support the project with training assistance through its Workforce Services Jobs Investment Program.

RR Donnelley, the world's premier full-service provider of print and related services, announced April 26 that it will invest more than $38 million in its Roanoke County manufacturing facility.  Building improvements will total nearly $8 million and $30.5 million will be invested in equipment.  The plant expansion will create 83 new jobs over the next two years with an average salary of nearly $33,000.

Expansion of the Roanoke County facility to increase the book printing operations will result in a total investment of more than $100 million by R.R. Donnelley since 1996. the largest such capital investment in Roanoke County in the past 10 years.  The plant is a revolutionary digital facility that offers publishers the fastest, most profitable way to bring four-color books to market.  The Roanoke County facility currently employs approximately 220 people.

The Roanoke County is part of a multi-jurisdictional project announced at the same time by Governor Timothy M. Kaine.  The total project will involve expansion at three RR Donnelley plants in Virginia. The other two plants are in the City of Lynchburg and Rockingham County.  “The company is a valued employer in the state and this significant expansion will not only benefit the three communities, but the Commonwealth as a whole,” he said.

The total state-wide capital investment is expected to top $85 million with 139 new jobs created by 2008.  “During our 10 year relationship with RR Donnelly, the company has invested millions to create one of the most technologically advanced book printing facilities in the world.  Their current plan to further invest and hire employees in Roanoke County will continue to raise the skill sets of our labor force and build upon the dynamic partnership of which Roanoke County is immensely proud to be a part,” said Elmer Hodge, Roanoke County Administrator.

Roanoke County, in partnership with the City of Lynchburg, received a $1 million dollar grant from the Governor's Opportunity Fund to assist Donnelley with this project.  The Governor’s Grant will be matched by Roanoke County in the amount of $700,000, which will be used to offset costs associated with the project.  The Virginia Department of Business Assistance has offered a Workforce Services Training Grant of $83,400 for new job training and $375,000 in retraining funds to be allocated by the number of jobs created at each location.

Dynax America Corporation, a Japanese auto parts manufacturer and North American subsidiary of Dynax Corporation, announced April 7 that it will invest $11.7 million to expand its existing facility in Botetourt County’s EastPark Commerce Center.  The company will add manufacturing capacity, creating 52 new jobs.  Virginia successfully competed against Tennessee for the project.

Dynax America located in the Roanoke Valley in 1996. The company’s Japanese parent, Dynax Corporation of Hokkaido, Japan, is a subsidiary of Exedy Corporation, which is based in Osaka, Japan. Exedy, a publicly traded company listed on the first sections of the Tokyo and Osaka Stock Exchanges, has facilities in a dozen countries worldwide and employs more than 7,000.  Dynax America employs 278 people at its Botetourt County plant, where it manufactures clutch discs, driven plates, clutch packs and torque converter pistons for automatic transmissions.

“Dynax and Exedy consider the Commonwealth of Virginia and Botetourt County important partners in the company’s decision to expand the Dynax America facility.  The Roanoke Valley’s strategic location, the quality of the workforce and the local infrastructure were also critical factors in the decision to increase our investment in Botetourt County,” said Koji Akita, President of Dynax America.

Since 1995, five transportation-related companies have located in Botetourt County. In addition to Dynax, they are: Metalsa Roanoke, Virginia Forge, Koyo Steering Systems of USA and Altec Industries.  All five have announced expansions at their Botetourt County facilities.

“Dynax America is a vital component of Botetourt County’s automotive cluster and our largest private employer,” said Wanda C. Wingo, Chair of the Botetourt County Board of Supervisors.  “We are pleased that Exedy Corporation has chosen to expand Dynax America’s facilities here and we intend to work as a partner to help ensure their future success.”

The company was aided in its decision by Botetourt County, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership. Governor Timothy M. Kaine approved a $125,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist Botetourt County with the project.  The Virginia Department of Business Assistance also will support the project with training assistance through its Workforce Services Jobs Investment Program.

TransCore, a provider of technology based services and products that enable customers to efficiently manage ground transportation systems, assets and transactions, announced December 19 that it will locate a customer service facility in the Town of Clifton Forge. The company will invest $1.4 million and create 60 new jobs, providing service to the VA Dept. of Transportation to manage the state’s Smart Tag system.

Headquartered in Vienna, VA, TransCore employs 1,800 people and has 80 locations worldwide. The company is a unit of Roper Industries, a $1.4 billion diversified industrial technology company.

The facility will serve as the primary customer service and technical support for electronic tolling operations in Virginia.  The center will manage all customer calls and accounts, as well as operate an improved violation-enforcement system through a network of cameras.  The walk-in customer service centers in Chesterfield County, Reston and Gloucester will stay open, but all other administrative, technological and call functions will be managed from the Clifton Forge location.   Hiring will begin in March 2006 for the center’s scheduled opening in September 2006.

TransCore selected the Alleghany Highlands for several reasons: a large and stable work force; an available facility that can accommodate a state-of-the-art customer service and call center, and proximity to Dabney S. Lancaster Community College for training opportunities.  The company also cited the efforts made by the Commonwealth of Virginia and local officials.  "Governor Warner's commitment to helping this region led us to Clifton Forge, and we appreciate the support of local officials who made this an ideal venue," said John Worthington, TransCore’s president. "The combination call and data center will undoubtedly bolster the economy of the area and also serve to expand the customer service VDOT provides its Smart Tag/E-ZPass patrons.”

Tecton Products, LLC, a manufacturer of pultruded composite products, broke ground Sept. 28 for its new 75,000 square-foot facility in the Roanoke County Center for Research and Technology (CRT). The project, which was announced in April, will create 58 new jobs with a $9.5 million investment in the first phase of the project.  The company will invest an additional $3.5 million and create 93 more jobs in Phase II by 2011.  In total, Tecton plans to invest $13 million within the next five years. Tecton also considered a site in North Dakota for the project.

Tecton is the second company to locate in the Roanoke County Center for Research and Technology, a 457-acre business park designed for high tech manufacturing and research and development companies.  “Tecton’s selection of the CRT for their first east coast manufacturing facility supports Roanoke County’s vision for this park,” said Elmer Hodge, Roanoke County Administrator. “Tecton is a leading high tech manufacturer with quality job opportunities and we are thrilled to have them locate in the County.”

Tecton Products selected Roanoke County primarily due to the presence of one of their largest customers, Integrity Windows.  Roanoke’s central location to their east coast customer base and proximity to Virginia Tech also was integral to the company’s decision to locate within the region, due to the complex technology the it uses in the creation of its products.  “Today is significant in the growth and development of Tecton Products,” said Robert Plagemann, General Manager for Tecton.  “As we break ground for our second facility, the CRT will make an outstanding new home for the future success of our company.”  Tecton plans to open its facility and begin manufacturing by June of 2006.

ITT Industries, Inc. announced September 26 that its Night Vision group -- the  world’s leading developer, producer and supplier of night vision goggles and technology -- was awarded up to $40 million of facilitization funding from the Army Contracting Agency of White Sands Missile Range. As a result the company will commit ITT capital for a total planned investment of $51.8 million for capacity expansion at its Roanoke County facility. The expansion will create 250 new well-paying jobs, including 50 management-level positions, and is in response to an increased need by the U.S. Military for night vision products.

The company plans to enhance its production capabilities through building renovation, state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment and site development of its production facility in North Roanoke County.  “The support of the Commonwealth of Virginia and Roanoke County has been instrumental in achieving our mission to outfit U.S. and allied warfighters with life-saving technology,” said Gary Aicher, ITT’s President and General Manager. “ITT’s facility expansion will not only benefit our troops, but our local workforce and Virginia’s economic development as well.”

ITT recently announced a $10 million contract award from the U.S. Army Research, Development & Engineering Command Acquisition Center for production of the first sensor fusion goggle, called the Enhanced Night Vision Goggle (ENVG). The Army then awarded ITT a $40 million option award for additional ENVGs. The ENVG combines image intensification and thermal imaging technologies in one system improving ground soldiers’ mobility and situational awareness through clear target identification and improved target detection.

“ITT is an industry leader in night vision and sensor fusion technology, and they are vital to Roanoke County and the surrounding region as a major employer and high-tech manufacturer,” said Doug Chittum, Roanoke County Economic Development Director.

The company was assisted in its award application by Roanoke County, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and the Virginia Department of Business Assistance (VDBA).  The company will benefit from a $700,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund, which will be matched by Roanoke County, and a $150,000 training grant from the VDBA’s Workforce Services Program, which will provide training assistance for the new employees.

Virginia Forge Company, one of the three businesses of the MFC Group based in Meadville, Pennsylvania, announced August 23 that it will undertake an $18.25 million expansion of its operations in Botetourt County.  Phase 1 of the expansion will begin immediately and will result in a $12.25 million investment and 6 new jobs, bringing total employment to 65.  As a result of this expansion, forging capacity will double.  Phase 2 of the expansion, timing to be determined, will add $6 million in new equip¬ment, 15 additional jobs, and new manufacturing processes.

Virginia Forge began operations in Botetourt County in 1997.  It is the most efficient, technologically advanced forging facility in the United States and is a major supplier of automotive wheel hubs.  Since locating in Botetourt County, Virginia Forge has also become involved in supporting community efforts in the Town of Buchanan and in the County.

Mod-U-Kraf LLC, one of the region’s leaders in the manufacture of systems-built, single-family homes, announced July 20 that it has chosen Franklin County and the Town of Rocky Mount to locate a new production facility. Mod-U-Kraf will invest $2.8 million in the project and create 50 jobs.  The expansion will take place at its existing manufacturing facility in the Franklin County/Rocky Mount Industrial Park.  Virginia successfully competed with North Carolina, Ohio, Florida, and West Virginia for the project.

By focusing on its unique strengths, key customers and high quality construction techniques, Mod-U-Kraf LLC. will have projected sales of more than $33 million in 2005. The Rocky Mount plant currently employs 229.  Mod-U-Kraf is a member of Coachman Industries Housing Group, one of the nation’s largest modular home construction producers.

“The further we looked into Virginia, Franklin County and the Town of Rocky Mount, the more we became convinced that Virginia will continue to offer the quality workforce, competitive business costs, and a general great environment that made Mod-U-Kraf successful from its start in 1971. When you are competing against the world, every aspect matters. We know being in Franklin County gives us a tremendous advantage over our competitors” Jeff Powell, Vice President and General Manager, Mod-U-Kraf Homes LLC.

“Mod-U-Kraf’s decision to locate in Virginia and create 50 new jobs is a welcome announcement in our community. We all know Franklin County is a great place to call home, this reaffirms that it’s also one of Virginia’s best communities to grow a business,” said Wayne Angell, Franklin County Board of Supervisors.

“We look forward to partnering with this highly successful company in the years ahead. Make no mistake: Rocky Mount is open for business!” Mark Newbill, Mayor, Town of Rocky Mount.

“I am pleased that Mod-U-Kraf selected Franklin County as the location for this new venture,” noted Delegate Allen Dudley. “The Mod-U-Kraf team is one of the foundations of our local economy.  They know from experience that Franklin County’s workforce is first-rate.”

Delegate Dudley, a member of the Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission Board of Directors, was instrumental in securing this project for the Commonwealth by obtaining $75,000 in Tobacco Region Opportunity funds to recruit the expansion to Franklin County. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership, Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, Virginia Department of Business Assistance, the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership, the Town of Rocky Mount and Franklin County all assisted Mod-U-Kraf with its decision. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide workforce training services. Mod-U-Kraf also qualifies for additional job creation and capital investment grants through the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development as they are locating in an existing State Enterprise Zone. These grants could total up to $250,000 if the company meets employment and investment thresholds.

Koyo Steering Systems of USA, Inc. announced April 21 that it will invest $36 million to expand its Botetourt County facility. This project will result in the creation of 96 new jobs. Virginia successfully competed with Tennessee for the project.

Koyo Steering Systems of USA, Inc. is a U.S. subsidiary of Koyo Seiko Co., Ltd. of Osaka, Japan, which employs more than 16,000 throughout its worldwide subsidiaries. The parent company manufactures steering systems, bearings, automobile components and mechatronics and FA systems. It has facilities in Japan, Asia, Europe and South America, with U.S. operations in South Carolina and Tennessee.

“We met with company officials in Osaka to confirm final investment and employment numbers for this project,” said Governor Mark Warner. “Koyo Steering Systems has operated in Botetourt County since 1999. The company places great value on the region’s workforce and this expansion indicates the confidence it has in finding future success in the Roanoke Valley.”
 
“Koyo Steering Systems USA has found an ideal location in Botetourt County,” said Botetourt County Plant Manager John Goetz. “The education and training facilities have met all our needs including the use of the training center for a Saturday school for the children of our Japanese employees. The local community college has helped provide programs for continual education and the local area high schools have done an excellent job in preparing students to enter our workforce. The Governor's staff has assisted Koyo in finding ways to navigate state programs and workforce development assistance. 

“Geographically, Virginia has proven to be ideal for our use of Norfolk's port for the importing of our assembly components and we take advantage of Virginia's excellent highway system to transport our finished products to our customers.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Botetourt County and the Roanoke Economic Development Partnership to secure the project for Virginia.
 
"We are extremely proud of Koyo Steering System’s significant expansion project which underscores the strong, stable economic environment and local support structure which continue to foster business success here in Botetourt County,” said Terry L. Austin, Chairman, Botetourt County Board of Supervisors. “We are partners in a very bright and prosperous future."

Tecton Products, LLC, a manufacturer of pultruded composite products, announced April 5 that it will locate its first Virginia plant in Roanoke County’s Center for Research and technology. The company will invest $6.5 million in the first phase of the project and create 58 new jobs.  Phase II will invest an additional $5.6 million and create 93 more jobs by 2011.  Tecton also considered a site in North Dakota for the project.

Headquartered in Fargo, N.D., Tecton Products began in 1990 as a partnership between Marvin Windows and Doors and the company’s president. Tecton’s initial charter was to work with Marvin to develop a high performance window and door product line using pultrusions for the framing components. During Tecton's pultrusion process, glass reinforcements are impregnated with a proprietary liquid resin and pulled through a heated die. The resulting composite profile is strong, thermally stable, insulating and resistant to corrosion, chemicals and moisture. Today Tecton Products has become the world’s largest manufacturer of thin walled complex shaped pultrusions.

Tecton Products selected Virginia for its expansion for several reasons.  Tecton’s largest customer, Integrity from Marvin, recently located a new production facility in Roanoke County.  “The facility in Virginia puts us in the middle of our east coast customers and Roanoke is a great community for us”, said John Jambois, president of Tecton Products.

In addition, Tecton utilizes complex technology in the creation of their products.  “The nature of our business requires an excellent discipline in engineering and material sciences. We plan on developing partnerships with Virginia Tech, which we believe is critical to our future success”, said Robert Plagemann, general manager of Tecton Products, Roanoke.

Tecton Products is the second company to locate in the Roanoke Valley as a result of Integrity Windows and Doors’ February 2003 announcement to locate in Roanoke County.  Cardinal Glass also announced a Roanoke County location that October.  The new Tecton facility will be the second company in the Center for Research and Technology, which is the closest Roanoke Valley business park to Virginia Tech.

“Tecton’s proprietary manufacturing process represents the type of high tech manufacturing and technical jobs that we envisioned when we created the Center for Research and Technology,” said Roanoke County Administrator Elmer Hodge.  “The close proximity to Virginia Tech was instrumental in Tecton’s decision to locate in the CRT.  We couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome such a high-quality, value-added company to our community.”

“When Marvin Windows chose Roanoke County for its east coast Integrity Windows manufacturing operation, we began to encourage their suppliers to follow.  The announcement of Tecton Products, along with the recent Cardinal Glass announcement validates that Roanoke County is a desirable location for high tech manufacturing operations.  Based on Tecton’s market position and performance in Fargo, ND, we expect continued growth for many years,” said Hodge.

The company was aided in its decision by Roanoke County, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, and the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership.  The company will benefit from a $100,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund, and the Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide training through its Workforce Services Program.

Arkay Packaging, a manufacturer of high-quality packaging, announced today that it will expand its operations in Botetourt County. Through an $11 million investment in its EastPark Commerce Center facility, the company will create 75 new jobs. Arkay considered sites in North Carolina and New York for the project.

The New York-based company has been located in Virginia since 1996. The company also operates a production facility in Hauppauge, NY and has corporate offices in Manhattan.  A third-generation, family owned business, Arkay Packaging has a long tradition of excellence in providing the highest-quality folding cartons to some of the most recognized companies in the world, including those in the cosmetic, beauty aids, fragrance and pharmaceutical industries.

The company plans to develop an apprenticeship program for pressmen, a position that often is difficult to fill, so it can “grow its own” employees, said Mitchell Kaneff, president and CEO of Arkey Packaging.

“At Arkay, innovation is our mantra,” Kaneff added. “Arkay is committed to excellence because we always continue to strive to give our customers what they expect, when they expect it, every time! Consumers know they are buying design with every purchase and expect creativity at its best at every level of distribution.  We stimulate creativity by helping our clients mirror their new product innovations with packaging that is consistent and impact full. Arkay has enjoyed great success in Virginia, thanks in large part to continuous state support and the pro-business climate that the Commonwealth provides. The Botetourt County facility fits all of our requirements for future success, including close proximity to our facility in Hauppauge, NY, and easy access to major roadways.”

“The most reliable indicator of a strong business climate is the decision of an existing industry to expand locally," said Botetourt County Board of Supervisors Chairman Steve Clinton. "We are pleased that Arkay has made that choice in Botetourt County."

The company was aided in its decision by Botetourt County, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, and the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership.  The company will benefit from a state and local incentive package of nearly $250,000, which includes a $50,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide training through its Workforce Services Program.

The Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership today announced that Alleghany County and the City of Covington have joined the regional economic development organization.  The two new members join the Partnership’s seven governments: Botetourt, Craig, Franklin and Roanoke counties; the cities of Roanoke and Salem, and the Town of Vinton.

The move aligns the Partnership with the Roanoke Valley Alleghany Regional Commission, and marks the first time since the early 1990s – when Craig and Franklin counties joined – that the organization has expanded.  The Partnership was founded in August 1983.

“The addition of Alleghany County and the City of Covington will strengthen our regional message,” said G. Michael Pace, Jr., partnership president.  “It will allow us to speak to world with a louder voice.”

The Alleghany Highlands Economic Development Corporation will serve as the Partnership’s point of contact for marketing and prospect activity.

“Alleghany County is pleased to become a part of the rich tradition of the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership,” said Tammy Stephenson, Alleghany County Administrator.  “We’re looking forward to a prosperous relationship.”

Covington City Manager John Holpe added: “It makes sense for our two regions – which are joined by a common economy and mission – to begin a formal relationship.  All of western Virginia will benefit from it.”

Altec Industries, a Birmingham, AL-based manufacturer, is expanding its operations at the Botetourt Center at Greenfield. Altec, which located in the Roanoke Valley in August 2000 and began operations about a year later, makes equipment for the utility and telecommunications industries.

The company will add a new product line of truck-mounted cranes, and will increase its investment to $14 million. The company also plans to hire welders, mechanics and electrical assembly workers for the new line. The new jobs will pay more than $11/hour. The company currently employs 100 people at its Botetourt facility.

Altec is a leading manufacturer of aerial devices, digger derricks and specialty equipment for the electric utility, telecommunications and tree care industries. The company sells its products in more than 120 countries and employs more than 2,500 associates worldwide. It was second project – and the second transportation-related company – to locate in Greenfield.

George Marvin, president of Integrity Windows & Doors, speaks at the opening of his company's new manufacturing facility in Roanoke County in August.

“With today’s announcement, Integrity is reaffirming its commitment to the customers we serve,” said George Marvin, president of Integrity Windows and Doors. “By establishing a manufacturing foothold on the East Coast, and increasing our production capacity, we’re better positioned to respond to the needs of our growing customer base with superior products, dependable service and fast, on-time delivery.”

Since their introduction in 1994, Integrity’s windows and doors have earned a national reputation in the building products industry for best-in-class performance, reliability and service thanks to a highly-durable pultruded fiberglass material called Ultrex® that makes up the products’ exterior. Integrity’s windows and doors are available in today’s most popular standard sizes and styles from a national network of professional retailers.

Production of Integrity windows and doors at the Roanoke facility began earlier this summer, and will ramp up as necessary to support market demand. The facility currently employs approximately 75 people, and recruitment for additional employees in a variety of production, technical and professional positions will begin this fall. Position openings will be advertised through job fairs, community newspapers, and the company’s Web site at www.integritywindows.com.

Medtronics on July 14 opened a sales and training office in Salem at the Quantum office building in Ridgewood Farms. The company makes devices used in pacemakers and other in-the-body surgical tools. The training facility is a state-of-the-art high tech facility for the purpose of offering detailed training to both Doctors and Nurses in the use of their equipment.

Manitowoc Beverage Systems, a leading supplier of beverage dispensing equipment and parts for soft drinks, beer, wine and juice, recently moved from the City of Roanoke to a larger more modern facility on Intervale Drive in Salem. The new facility provides an additional 12,000 square feet, and will enhance operating performance with higher ceilings to extend racking and increase inventory, allows additional floor space for better material flow, and adds more dock doors for incoming and outgoing shipments.

Warehouse operations, customer service, engineering services and associates administrative support will be conducted from the new Salem facility. MBS has two other locations: its headquarters and a warehouse in Holland, OH and a warehouse in Irwindale, CA.

Jammin Custom Made Apparel & Accessories of Anaheim, CA, announced April 29 that it will relocate its production facility to the Rocky Mount Office & Technology Park early next year. The company expects to invest nearly $1.5 million in building and equipment and will employ as many as 60 people by next summer.

A 20-year-old company, owned and operated by brothers Mark and Brian Grinde, Jammin designs and sells most of its products over the Internet. Customers can choose the color, style and, even custom logos or original artwork. The minimum order is one, but the company also college and high school athletic programs through their commitment to excellence and innovative process.

The company has acquired a 12-acre site in the Rocky Mount Technology Park, which has been subdivided into two six-acre sites. The new facility will be constructed – beginning in late spring – on the one tract. The second tract will be developed by the two brothers, along with a third, Eric, as a Technology Business Center, which will provide space for small businesses to operate and grow. The Grindes have begun marketing the Technology Business Center through its website, www.technologybusinesscenter.com. Construction is likely to begin later this year, depending upon committed tenants.

Though Mark Grinde was not at the announcement last week, he issued a statement praising Rocky Mount and Franklin County: “After visiting almost every state in this country, we determined that Franklin County, Virginia is a very special place. With friendly people, a beautiful natural setting, a moderate climate, excellent schools and an encouraging environment for small business, we believe it will be an ideal new home for our families and company.” He added, “Relocating a business, especially from one coast to another, is a very complex undertaking. Fortunately for us, the people representing the town, county and state could not have been more helpful. We continue to be overwhelmed by the can-do spirit of everyone working with us to make this all happen. It has been a refreshing change for us to be working with local government officials who work hard to get things done and who want to establish a mutually beneficial relationship with our small business.”

Renaissance Contract Lighting & Furnishings announced today that it has chosen the City of Roanoke as the site of its headquarters and manufacturing operations. The 60,000-square-foot facility will manufacture customized lighting and metal furnishings for the hospitality industry. The project is expected to create 30 full-time jobs initially, with a steady ramp up to 80 full-time positions during the first 24 months of operation.

Located in Roanoke, Renaissance uses a state-of-the-art metal fabrication and finishing process to produce specialized, high quality products. The company was founded by Joe Cassell, president, and Troy Cook, vice president, who together bring more than 45 years experience in the lighting and metal furnishings industry. Renaissance Contract Lighting and Furnishings is a U.S. based, privately owned company with an international sales force. The company’s custom manufactured products are sold and distributed to many of the world’s leaders in the hotel, resort and hospitality industry.

“Renaissance is very excited about our new operations facility,” said Joe Cassell, company president. “Our future as a supplier in the hospitality industry is exceptionally bright and we are pleased to launch our operations and create new jobs here in Roanoke.”

“The Valley’s strategic location and knowledgeable workforce make Roanoke the logical choice for our company, said Troy Cook, vice president of Renaissance. “The officials from the City of Roanoke, the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership and the Commonwealth of Virginia worked extensively in making our company feel welcome.”

Virginia Forge has announced a $2 million expansion of its Buchanan facility to meet the growing demand of the light truck and sport utility market.

The company makes a variety of steel forgings, or parts used in the wheel structure of vehicles. Its specialty is wheel bearing outer races, one of a number of components that fit together to construct a wheel assembly on which a vehicle tire is mounted.

The expansion will add 8,000 square feet of manufacturing and office space and add eight employees, bringing the total employment to 61. Virginia Forge, which announced its Botetourt County location in 1996 and began operations a year later, is part of the MFC Group of Meadville, PA.

A highly automated manufacturer, Virginia Forge is increasing its computer numerical control machining capacity by 25 percent with the addition of four new machine tools and auxiliary equipment as part of the expansion.

R&D Millwork Inc. and its sister company, Custom Woodwork Inc. have announced an expansion of their Franklin County operations, resulting in the addition of 57 new jobs and $1.6 million in new investment. R&D and Custom will move into the former Pluma Textile Plant, currently owned by Ronile, Inc., and employ a total of 107 people.

R&D Millwork operates in several distinct lines of business, including special windows and doors, historical renovation and custom components for the building industry. Custom Woodwork is a supplier of interior and exterior door products. They market their products in the mid-Atlantic and southern regions, and the expansion will allow for further growth in the regional marketplace.

“We have considered this expansion for some time and the time to act was now,” said David Hodges, CEO. “Our future is exceptionally bright and we are pleased that we are able to expand in Franklin County. Our local team made us a leader in custom millwork and we look forward to growing in the near future.”

Ronile, Inc, an employee-owned company, announced Dec. 217 that it will expand its operations in Rocky Mount, resulting in 74 new jobs and $1.1 million in new plant investments. The expansion will allow Ronile to add a new dye process to the Rocky Mount plant that will increase the amount and types of products produced there. Ronile currently employs 254 people in Franklin County.

Ronile, Inc. and its subsidiaries operate in several distinct lines of business, including yarn dyeing and processing; the design, marketing and distribution of rugs, floor mats and bath accessories, and the manufacture and sale of residential carpet. The company employs approximately 1,400 people at its operations in Virginia, Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina and New York.

The expansion in Rocky Mount is the result of Ronile’s decision to move yarn dyeing operations of subsidiary Colorstrand Corporation in Lafayette, GA to the Rocky Mount plant. The Georgia plant will be closed in connection with the consolidation.

“We considered making this move ever since we exited the polypropylene extrusion and injection dye businesses in Rocky Mount,” said Phillip C. Essig, chief executive officer. “Those decisions freed up needed space in Rocky Mount. Although we are saddened by the impact on our Georgia Associates from this plant consolidation, this move allows us to become a stronger supplier to our customers. We will continue to supply the market for these yarns from our Rocky Mount plant.”

Essig added, “We are pleased to move this operation to Franklin County. The quality of the workforce here is unsurpassed. The Commonwealth of Virginia, Franklin County and the Town of Rocky Mount provide a good climate in which to operate and expand a business. We appreciate the leadership and support our local representatives have provided in helping to make this expansion happen.”

Cardinal Glass Industries, a Minnesota-based corporation, announced today that it has chosen the Town of Vinton and Roanoke County’s Vinton Business Center as the site of its first Virginia manufacturing facility. The 220,000-square foot facility will manufacture insulating glass. The project is expected to create 70 jobs initially, with a steady ramp up to 200 during the first 30 months of operation. The building has been designed to accommodate a 102,000-square-foot expansion – and 100 additional employees – within five years. The initial investment will be $23.9 million, growing to $31.4 million with the planned Phase II expansion.

Headquartered in Eden Prairie, MN, Cardinal Glass Industries is a vertically integrated producer of high-quality insulated glass for the residential window industry. The company is a primary producer of flat glass and the largest producer of low emissivity coatings in North America. Cardinal operates 16 facilities across the United States and has two additional plants under construction. Cardinal Glass Industries is a U. S. based, privately owned company that has been servicing the residential window industry for more than 40 years.

“Cardinal Glass is very excited about this opportunity in Virginia,” said Roger O’Shaughnessy, president and CEO. “It will allow us to be closer to our customers. It has been through strong partnerships with our customers and close relationships with local communities that Cardinal has become the leader in the residential glass market. It is the sound work ethic of the region and the strong support of state, county and town officials that has brought us to the Roanoke Valley.”

Cardinal Glass is a major supplier to Integrity Windows, which announced a plant location in the Valley in February and is building a major new facility in Roanoke County’s Valley Gateway.

Cardinal is the first company to locate in the Vinton Business Center, a 100-acre park owned by the Town of Vinton, but located in eastern Roanoke County. The two governments have created a unique revenue sharing agreement. The agreement calls for the two parties to share in the cost and revenue of the Vinton Business Center. The two parties will share all tax revenues in perpetuity based on their contribution for the development costs. Cardinal considered a number of sites in the southeastern United States, including a site the company owns in Mooresville, NC.

Atlantic Credit & Finance, a Roanoke-based receivables management company, announced today that it will move into the former Litton Building on Orange Avenue later this summer and create 226 new jobs over the next 24 to 36 months. The project will result in an investment of $8.5 million in lease, renovations and equipment. Atlantic Credit & Finance currently is located in the Pheasant Ridge office building and employs 150 people. A ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new location is planned for later this summer.

The company was founded in 1996 by brothers Richard and Kelly Woolwine, both graduates of Northside High School in Roanoke County. Richard graduated from Virginia Military Institute and Kelly from Virginia Tech. The company began in Kelly Woolwine’s basement. It placed 16th on Inc. Magazine’s list of the 500 fastest growing privately held businesses in America for 2002.

As a receivables management company, Atlantic Credit & Finance purchases charged-off credit card debt. They then own the debt they try to recover by calling debtors and negotiating payment arrangements.

“We are pleased to expand our business and create new jobs here in the Roanoke Valley, where we grew up,” said Kelly Woolwine, president. “This building will give us room to grow.”

Added Richard Woolwine, “We’re extremely satisfied with the quality of the workforce in the Valley.”

MW Manufacturers, a window manufacturer and Franklin County’s largest employer, announced today that it will expand its operations in Rocky Mount. The company will relocate its Lineal Technologies division to Franklin County to increase production in its extruded plastic component products line. The relocation brings a $4.7 million investment and 130 jobs to Franklin County over the next 30 months. The move saves 70 jobs and creates 60 new ones. The division’s facility currently is located on a floodplain in the City of Roanoke and the company was unable to locate a suitable existing building there for the expansion. MW will relocate the division to an existing 100,000-square-foot facility in Rocky Mount. Virginia successfully competed with New Jersey for the investment.

MW Manufacturers Inc., headquartered in Rocky Mount, produces and distributes a wide range of window and door products for the residential construction industry. Founded in 1939, MW has expanded on a rich tradition in handcrafted millwork to become a major manufacturer of classic wood, clad and all-vinyl windows. MW currently operates manufacturing and distribution facilities in Rocky Mount; Hammonton, New Jersey; Fayetteville, North Carolina; and Tupelo, Mississippi. MW brands that include Freedom, V-Wood, Jefferson, Twinseal, and
Patriot, are sold in retail building material dealers and home centers throughout the eastern United States. The company plans to begin operations in the new facility this June.

“It is our intention to partner with a locale that supported our efforts to grow as a business and to add value to the community. The Town of Rocky Mount, Franklin County and the Commonwealth of Virginia have demonstrated they share these objectives and were a major influence in our decision to relocate our Lineal division within Virginia.” Said Michael P. Haley, CEO and president of MW Manufacturers.

Gary McLaren, deputy director of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (right), presents a Virginia flag to Jesus Theurel, CEO of Metalsa at the March 2003 announcement.

Metalsa, headquartered in Monterrey, Mexico, has been located in Virginia since 1996. The company operates two facilities in Mexico in addition to the Botetourt County facility, which currently employs 134 people. Metalsa manufactures frame structures for trucks, suspension systems, fuel systems and chassis structural parts utilizing the latest in world class technological concepts. They now hold 60 percent market share in Class 8 truck frame rails. They have found Roanoke to be strategically located to serve their customer base and their requirements for just-in-time, line sequenced products. To meet increasing market demand, they are expanding their Roanoke facility, doubling the production capacity. Ground breaking will begin in April, resulting in production capabilities in late September.

“We considered several locations for this expansion,” said Jesus Theurel, CEO of Metalsa. “The decision to build adjacent to our current facility was based largely on the positive outlook for the Roanoke Valley, coupled with our outstanding relationship with Botetourt County, and strong ties to the community.”

Metalsa considered sites in Pennsylvania and Mexico for the project. Governor Mark Warner met with Steven Helgeson, CEO of Metalsa Roanoke, during his recent marketing mission to the Detroit area.

Marvin Windows and Doors, a Minnesota-based corporation, announced today that it has chosen Roanoke County’s Valley Gateway Business Park as the site of a new manufacturing facility for its line of Integrity Windows and Doors. Marvin, the largest made-to-order window and door manufacturer in the world is known for its high-quality craftsmanship, and has been recognized among industry leaders for producing superior products for 60 years. The Integrity facility is expected to create 150 jobs within the next 30 months, and 350 by the end of 2008. Integrity plans to invest $32 million within the next five years, $15 million in Phase I and $17 million in Phase II.

Integrity Windows and Doors was introduced in 1994 as a new line from Marvin. Integrity products feature exteriors made with Ultrex - an advanced, state-of-the-art pultruded fiberglass material that offers superior durability and performance. Integrity’s product line includes a wide range of standard-size windows and doors, including double hungs, casements, gliders, and swinging and sliding patio doors.

“The Roanoke Valley’s strategic location and excellent business climate make this a natural choice for our new east coast operation,” said George G. Marvin, president of Integrity Windows. “The officials from Roanoke County, the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership and the Commonwealth of Virginia went the extra mile in making us feel welcome.”

Integrity is the first company to locate in Valley Gateway, a mixed-used business park in eastern Roanoke County jointly developed by the county and F&W Properties, Inc. Integrity considered a number of sites in the mid-Atlantic region, as well as in North Dakota.