American Stair Corporation, Inc., a manufacturer of steel stairs and railings, plans to relocate its operations, creating up to 180 new jobs by 2018, from Romeoville, Illinois to Hammond, Indiana.

The company will invest $2.9 million to purchase, renovate and equip a 60,000 square-foot facility located at 3510 Calumet Avenue in Hammond, also adding an additional 12,000 square feet in production space.

“Indiana offers the best business environment in the Midwest area,” said Gordon Fitzsimmons, President of American Stair. “It is a state that values businesses that bring working opportunities for its citizens. The key is that Indiana recognizes that government, its citizens and businesses are all connected and must work together to achieve the best possible future.”

The facility, which will be operational by the end of March, will undergo renovations while the company gradually relocates production from its Illinois facility over the next year. With its new Indiana operations, the company will consolidate all fabrication into one facility, improving its material flow to increase efficiency and quality. American Stair, which currently employs more than 140 full-time associates, has already begun hiring detailers, estimators, welders, grinders and layout professionals.

“Indiana is proud to offer a business climate that is affordable and predictable,” said Governor Mike Pence. "American Stair is gaining a competitive advantage by bringing its operations to Indiana and hiring Hoosiers, benefiting from the lower taxes and balanced budget that make Indiana a state that works for business.”

As an incentive Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered American Stair Corporation, Inc. up to $1,725,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company's job creation plans. These incentives are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority supports the project through its no-interest securitized forgivable loan program. The city of Hammond approved additional incentives.