To increase production of its respiratory and hearing protection products, 3M plans to expand its plant in Valley, Nebraska. The $58 million project is expected to create 50 jobs.

The company will undertake a 80,000 square foot expansion, investing in additional production capacity for re-usable elastomeric respirators and PELTOR hearing protection products in 3M's Personal Safety Division. The expansion will include new production lines, equipment and a warehouse.

"Our colleagues at 3M's Valley plant have played an important role providing critical supplies to frontline workers throughout the COVID-19 pandemic," said Matt Huset, plant director at 3M Valley. "We're pleased to announce this investment in our growth in Nebraska which will allow us to further meet demand for personal safety equipment for the United States."

3M Valley produces most of the company’s products for the 3M Personal Safety Division. The company played a significant role in helping 3M meet the unprecedented demand for PPE as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 3M acquired the Valley, Nebraska site in 1979 and it employs roughly 560 people.

"We are proud to call 3M Valley a neighbor for more than 40 years and are excited to support 3M in its plans to expand its Valley plant and create jobs," said Anthony L. Goins, Director, Nebraska Department of Economic Development. "The ImagiNE Nebraska Act was specifically made to help companies like 3M grow and expand in Nebraska."