Encina Development Group (The Woodlands, Tex.) announced plans to invest $1.1 billion to build a new manufacturing facility in Point Township, Pennsylvania that would create 300 new full-time jobs. This proposed state-of-the-art facility, named The Point Township Circular Manufacturing Facility, would be the first in the region to use advanced technologies to convert post-consumer materials into feedstock that can be used to manufacture thousands of new products.
“Increasingly, customers are demanding sustainable practices across the product supply chain and life cycle. The feedstocks we manufacture – reduce waste, offset the need to produce virgin materials and help manufacturers achieve carbon neutral goals as we transition to a circular economy. Pennsylvania’s access to markets and skilled workforce presents an ideal opportunity for investment and we’re committed to being an engaged partner as we build long-lasting and mutually beneficial relationships with the local community and businesses,” said David Roesser, chief executive officer of Encina.
Annually, the Point Township Circular Manufacturing Facility will process 450,000 tons of post-consumer materials, diverting the vast majority from landfills and away from incinerators. This facility would reduce the need to produce new plastic from oil and gas resources, providing circular solutions to customers committed to reducing their impact on the environment to build a circular economy.
“I’m pleased by Encina’s commitment to Pennsylvania with this investment,” Gov. Tom Wolf said. “Not only will they be creating new, good -paying jobs, but they’re committed to doing it with an innovative approach that will lessen their impact on the climate and sustain a brighter future for all of us.”
According to an analysis by the Pennsylvania Manufacturers Association, the construction and operation of this facility are projected to inject more than $2.1 billion into the local and state economies over the next five years. Construction is expected to last 24 months and employ 750 local workers. Once fully operational, the Point Township Circular Manufacturing Facility would have 300 full-time employees. Encina is committed to hiring and utilizing local businesses wherever possible on this project. Construction is expected to begin in fall 2022, and the facility is expected to be fully operational by fall 2024.
“Encina’s advanced manufacturing facility is exactly the type of investment we work to attract. Northumberland County is at the heart of Pennsylvania’s manufacturing renaissance with new technologies and a number of educational opportunities for relevant certifications and advanced degrees to train our local workforce for these next-generation jobs. They will be an excellent regional partner and we look forward to the benefits this facility will bring to the environment, local communities and regional economy,” said Jennifer Wakeman, executive director of DRIVE Economic Development Pennsylvania.
In advance of planned construction and operations, Encina is working with relevant agencies on permitting and feasibility work related to the site.
“We are excited to welcome Encina and this $1 billion facility to Northumberland County. This region has a long history as a strong manufacturing base for Pennsylvania and this investment ushers in the future of technologies in advanced manufacturing,” Northumberland County Commissioner Samuel Schiccatano said.