$4 Million Investment Boosts Rhoads Manufacturing at Philly Navy Yard

Rhoads Industries Expands Operations at Philadelphia Navy Yard with $100 Million Investment

In a significant boost to Pennsylvania's manufacturing sector, Rhoads Industries is set to expand its operations at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, backed by a $100 million investment. This initiative is expected to generate over 450 new jobs while maintaining 541 existing positions, marking a major win for the state's economy.

The Commonwealth has committed $4 million to this project as part of its ongoing support for Rhoads Industries. The company will use the funds to construct a new 95,000-square-foot facility, enhancing its capacity to support the U.S. Navy's submarine program. This development enables Rhoads to expedite its manufacturing processes and streamline shipping via direct access to a pier.

"Shipbuilding has always been key part of Philadelphia’s identity and our economy, and today, I’m proud to announce that Rhoads Industries is investing $100 million and creating over 450 new jobs at the Navy Yard," stated Governor Josh Shapiro. He emphasized the strategic importance of this investment for national security and economic growth in the region.

Rhoads Industries, a family-owned business since 1896, specializes in industrial fabrication and maritime services. The company benefits from its location in a Keystone Opportunity Zone, which offers significant tax savings. The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has provided over $17 million in support through various grants over the years.

"Rhoads has called Philadelphia home for nearly 130 years, and the Shapiro Administration is glad they’re doubling down and investing yet again in our Commonwealth," remarked DCED Secretary Rick Siger. This project aligns with the governor's strategy to bolster key industries in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

Rhoads also runs a paid, three-year apprenticeship program in partnership with Boilermakers Local 19, training high school graduates for careers in the submarine industrial base. This program is part of a broader push by the Shapiro Administration to increase funding for career and technical education (CTE) and apprenticeships by nearly $65 million across the state.

"This investment by the Commonwealth will expedite and accelerate our production output and rapid hiring by at least one year," noted Dan Rhoads, Jr., CEO of Rhoads Industries. The collaboration between the public and private sectors aims to strengthen Pennsylvania's position as a manufacturing hub.

The Philadelphia Navy Yard, housing over 150 employers and 15,000 jobs, is central to the region's economic development strategy. In May, the Shapiro Administration allocated $30 million to enhance the Navy Yard's infrastructure, fostering innovation and job creation.

Since Governor Shapiro took office, the state has secured more than $25.2 billion in private sector investments, creating nearly 11,000 jobs. The administration continues to focus on economic growth, with plans to invest in workforce development and tax incentives to attract more businesses to Pennsylvania.

For further information, explore Governor Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget proposal and the state's Economic Development Strategy.