Corporate officials in Wisconsin last week announced plans to close the Washington Modine Manufacturing plant over the next two years. Currently 245 people work at the Washington plant full-time. According to Washington Economic Development Group, or WEDG, the Washington production lines will primarily be relocated to an existing Modine plant in Jefferson City and Joplin, Missouri, as well as Mexico.

Ed Raber, director of WEDG, shares he was surprised to hear of the plan. Raber estimated that most of the 245 full-time employees live in the local area and the employees are skilled, which will help in finding new work. He adds the Kirkwood Washington Regional Center may help with the community’s transition, both for the staff looking for new positions and in attracting new businesses to the area.

Modine has operated in Washington since 1985. For the more information listen to today’s Washington Page.