FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
What? South Norfolk employer Plasser American to break ground on major expansion of its North American headquarters and assembly facility
When? Wednesday March 3, 2021 at 1 p.m.
Who? Chesapeake Mayor Rick West and Economic Development Director Steven Wright; Plasser American President Thomas Blechinger
Where? Although Plasser’s address is on Myers Road, media heading north on Atlantic Avenue should turn left prior to Myers Road onto Narrow Street and park in a designated area near a tent where the event will take place
Plasser American, which designs and manufactures large, construction machines used to maintain and repair railroad tracks across the country and for export, will officially launch an expansion of its operation in the South Norfolk area of Chesapeake on Wednesday March 3 at 1 p.m.
The $52.6-million project, to be built by local vendor MEB Construction, will include a new 82,000-square-foot manufacturing facility to double production capacity and a 45,000-square-foot, three-story office building as well as the purchase of more equipment, including an updated industrial paint booth. As a result of the growth, Plasser American will add 98 new jobs to its current workforce of just over 300 employees.
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the City of Chesapeake Economic Development Authority and The Port of Virginia to secure the project for the state. Governor Northam approved a $450,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund.
The expansion coincides with the commencement of Plasser’s 60th year in the United States. Started in Austria and today with a worldwide presence, Plasser American began in Illinois in 1961 and relocated to Chesapeake in 1970 for milder weather and to be close to the Port. Besides its manufacturing capabilities, the company provides railway inspections and railway repair vehicle services. Plasser American also has a first-of-its-kind training program that enables apprentices to gain hands-on experience while studying at Tidewater Community College.
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