HARRISONVILLE, Mo. – Some of the state’s political leaders are championing the construction of a new manufacturing plant in Harrisonville, Mo.
Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler and state Sen. Ed Emery, R-Lamar, attended a groundbreaking of Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc.’s new plant Tuesday, the company’s first in Missouri. The two joined company CEO Joe Chlapaty for a ceremonial event to discuss the facility with members of the community.
“This facility will help meet growing demand for our water management solutions, and we are excited about our increasing contributions to the state of Missouri and this wonderful community,” Chlapaty said.
The 72,650 square-foot facility should open in the first half of 2017, though a specific date has not yet been set. Chlapaty cited efforts made by the Missouri Department of Transportation contributing “significantly to ADS’ decision to invest in Missouri.” In 2011 and 2014, MoDOT revised its standards to allow plastic pipe to be used in statewide infrastructure projects for stormwater management. This decision, Chlapaty said, allowed for more competition between manufacturers.
Hartzler added that she looked forward to the job growth the new business could bring to the area. The company estimates it will hire roughly 50 people at the new site.
“Job creation is at the heart of America’s economic recovery, and I am extremely pleased to welcome Advanced Drainage Systems to Missouri’s 4th District,” she said. “As a small business owner, I share the excitement of ADS as it embarks on this expansion that will bring new employment opportunities to citizens of Harrisonville and Cass County.”
