Area Development
A subsidiary of Canadian rail car manufacturer National  Steel Car Limited will build a new manufacturing facility in Colbert County, Alabama, at what state officials estimate as a $350 million investment. National Alabama Corporation, the newly formed company, plans to employ an engineered "greenfield" manufacturing process at the facility, which is expected to employ 1,800 workers upon completion in early 2009. "We are making a very long-term commitment to work with these communities as a responsible employer, to train and develop a large number of new assocites, and to actively participate in programs that enhance the quality of life and community in this region," says Gregory Aziz, chairperson and CEO of National Industries, Inc., parent company of National Steel Car Limited and National Alabama Corporation. Company officials estimate that, at full production, the new plant will have an annual capacity of 8,000 to 10,000 units.