Governor Shapiro Secures $3 Billion in Investments, 200 New Jobs in PA
Pennsylvania Sees Surge in Private Investments, Boosting Job Creation Across the State
Pennsylvania has drawn more than $3 billion in private investments since Governor Shapiro's inauguration. This week, investments exceeding $20 million are set to generate over 200 jobs.
“We are proud to call Pennsylvania home and are grateful for the support of Governor Shapiro and his administration as we continue to grow.”
“This success is a direct result of the strong public-private partnerships and collaborative relationships that work together to create the right conditions for investment and smart economic growth.”
Harrisburg, PA – Governor Josh Shapiro's administration has unveiled several initiatives aimed at bolstering Pennsylvania's economy. These efforts have attracted substantial private sector investments that promise to create numerous well-paying jobs throughout the state. Under Governor Shapiro's leadership, Pennsylvania has seen over $3 billion in investments, marking significant economic strides.
Among the administration's efforts is the unveiling of the first Economic Development Strategy in two decades. This strategy emphasizes key sectors such as agriculture, energy, life sciences, manufacturing, and technology. The recent announcements include:
- Il Pastaio's First North American Facility in Union County: The Italian pasta manufacturer has chosen Pennsylvania over other states, committing a $12.5 million investment to establish its first North American production plant. This move is expected to create at least 74 full-time jobs at a 71,300-square-foot facility located within a Keystone Opportunity Zone, which offers considerable tax advantages. The project is supported by a $111,000 WEDnetPA grant for workforce training and $72,200 in tax credits.
- REV Copack Expansion in Luzerne County: This $3.1 million initiative will expand the beverage packaging company's operations, creating 132 new jobs and retaining 18 existing positions. The expansion, which involves relocating to a larger facility to double production capacity, is backed by a $1.5 million Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority loan and a $55,000 WEDnetPA training grant.
- Downtown Pittston Revitalization: A $3 million investment through the Main Street Matters program supports various development projects, including the Kevin Powers Accessible Playground and the Slope Amphitheater. These efforts are part of broader plans to enhance local businesses and community infrastructure.
Community and Business Leaders Weigh in on Investments:
Pierluigi Colombi, CEO, Il Pastaio: “The opening of this plant is certainly an important step for Il Pastaio, but it also materializes the idea of making our contribution to the integration of the best Italian traditions with the energy and the agro-food culture of the United States. We are excited to contribute to the growth of the sector, bringing our quality craftsmanship and passion for Italian cuisine to a new generation of consumers. This initiative is not only an investment in the future but also a testament to the authenticity of Made in Italy, which is destined to flourish in a land of great opportunity like the United States, a country with which we share a deep admiration and lasting friendship.”
Shawn McLaughlin, Director, Planning and Economic Development of Union County: “This project is a testament to the power of teamwork and the manufacturing resurgence we’re witnessing across our region, thanks to companies like Il Pastaio. We are excited to support Pastaio’s long-term success through our strong business support ecosystem, natural resources, strategic location, and high-quality talent. Today, we’re seeing our corner of the world change for the better. Il Pastaio had both the vision and the plan to build a modern manufacturing facility here in Union County. We’re grateful for their investment in our community and region.”
Union County Commissioner Jeff Reber: “This success is a direct result of the strong public-private partnerships and collaborative relationships that work together to create the right conditions for investment and smart economic growth. While the main congratulations go to the company for taking risks, making investments, and creating careers, the economic growth we’re seeing is truly the work of many. I also want to extend my deepest thanks to our extensive and impressive industry and business support ecosystem here in the region for their ongoing contributions to this success.”
Lauren Bryson, Executive Director, Focus Central Pennsylvania: “Focus Central Pennsylvania and our network of economic development partners are grateful to Il Pastaio for choosing to invest in Central PA for their first manufacturing location in the United States. Central PA looks forward to welcoming Il Pastaio to the region and supporting their long-term success with our strong business support ecosystem, natural resources, strategic location, and high-quality talent and training.”
Andy Josuweit, CEO of REV Copack: “We are proud to call Pennsylvania home and are grateful for the support of Governor Shapiro and his administration as we continue to grow. This expansion has helped us to double our manufacturing capacity and create new employment opportunities in Luzerne County. We are committed to delivering innovative packaging solutions to our customers, while investing in the community and local economy. This project is a testament to the power of public-private partnerships in driving growth and building a stronger future for Pennsylvania.”
Jeffrey Box, President and CEO, NEPA Alliance: “The NEPA Alliance was delighted to support REV Copack’s expansion project, which will bring more jobs to Luzerne County and also create increased production capabilities at their new facility. This project is sure to have a great, lasting impact on the region’s economy.”
Senator Marty Flynn: “Real progress starts with hard work and collaboration, and that’s exactly what these projects represent. They’ll serve as a foundation for working families to grow and our communities to flourish.”
Representative Jim Haddock: “It is tremendous to have the support of Governor Shapiro and DCED Secretary Rick Siger as we see state dollars being put to excellent use in Pittston. The sites we toured today are all projects that are prime examples of the progress that can be made when we cultivate thriving partnerships between the state government, local government, and private businesses. To us in Harrisburg, it is clear when you give state money to Pittston, it leveraged to swiftly bring about projects that are worthwhile and fully realized. Thanks to the innovative leadership of Mayor Lombardo, the Pittston City Council, and city staff, these projects are sure to become iconic fixtures in the community, and we are all thrilled to be a part of them. As State Representative, I am proud to continue supporting this progress!”
Pittston Mayor Michael Lombardo: “Over the past decade, the City of Pittston has seen unprecedented downtown and neighborhood revitalization, and our partnership with Governor Shapiro’s office and DCED has been vital to this process. Innovative strategies such as Main Street Matters, PA Mixed-Use Housing Development, the Neighborhood Assistance Program, PA Sites, and the comprehensive Housing Action Plan are providing boroughs, townships, and cities the tools they need for economic vitality. When all levels of government work together we ‘Get Stuff Done’ for the citizens of the Commonwealth.”
See what Pennsylvanians are reading and hearing about these recent economic development investments:
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