First Quality Tissue, a manufacturer of ultra-premium towel and tissue products, will expand its operations in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania. The company will create 184 new jobs.

First Quality Enterprises will expand operations at First Quality Tissue by constructing a new plant near its existing facility at 904 Woods Avenue, and purchase machinery and equipment to accommodate a new tissue line.

According to state officials, First Quality Enterprises agreed to make a significant investment at the site along with a commitment to create 184 new, full-time jobs over the next three years and retain more than more than 3,000 employees statewide. Project completion and start-up of the new facility is anticipated for the first half of 2019.

First Quality Enterprises received a funding proposal from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development that includes a $1 million Pennsylvania First program grant and $250,000 in WEDnetPA funding for employee training. First Quality has also been encouraged to apply for a $2 million low-interest loan through the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA).

The project was coordinated by the Governor’s Action Team in collaboration with the Clinton County Partnership. “This was a highly competitive project, as First Quality has other operations outside of the Commonwealth. Even so, Pennsylvania’s dedicated workforce and prime location continue to be highly valued assets to both new and existing companies and helped lock in First Quality’s decision to expand here,” said Governor Tom Wolf. “As Clinton County’s largest employer, I am pleased that it is furthering its presence in Pennsylvania. The creation of 184 new, full-time jobs will have a significant impact on the county and beyond.”

“We are very pleased that First Quality is again expanding in our greater community. We sincerely appreciate the company’s latest investment and providing new employment opportunities for our area,” said Mike Flanagan, President, Clinton County Economic Partnership. “First Quality is a first class operation. We would also like to thank DCED and Governor Wolf for providing a state financial package to assist in the company’s growth. The state has always been a great partner to work with on various projects throughout the years.”