When a major steel deck and joist manufacturer wanted to become more competitive in the upper Midwest region, it called on Austin Consulting and The Austin Company to help find a location and build a new manufacturing plant and office building. Austin first performed a site location study focused primarily in areas in Indiana and Illinois to identify the best area based on annual cost and non-cost factors. Important location considerations included quality industrial sites at a reasonable cost, labor availability and a quality local technical school for training needs, an area with a positive history regarding labor relations, a good sources for all utilities especially electric power, and incentive programs including worker training and grants to assist in site development. Upon selection of a final site in Peru, Illinois, Austin also completed design, engineering, and construction services for the new facility.
Major Location Factors
- Central location to serve Midwest clients
- Rail-served sites in an industrial environment
- Close proximity to area highway network
- Reliable and redundant electric power capabilities
- A workforce with a manufacturing background and a strong work ethic
- A supportive pro-business community and region
Austin Services Provided
- Community and Property Screening
- Detailed Community and Greenfield Site Analysis
- Due Diligence
- Design, Engineering and Construction
PROJECT STATS
Project Investment: $18 Million
Labor Requirements: 30-50 Employees
Site Size: 29 acres
Building Size: 125,000 SF
LOCATION
Original Search Area: Midwest US
Final Location: Peru, Illinois