Area Development
Gerber is expanding in Fort Smith Arkansas, the Fort Smith City Wire reports. The company, which produces food for babies and toddlers, will spend $89.9 million on the expansion and create up to 50 jobs. The project marks the most significant facility renovation for the Gerber site since it opened in 1964.

"This investment is truly a testament to the hard work and commitment of our employees," Patrick Murray, Gerber's Fort Smith plant manager, said in a statement.

The company will add a cereal production line to its existing 900,000-square-foot facility. The Fort Smith Board of Directors has approved $65 million in industrial revenue bonds to support the addition.

The company will begin construction immediately, and expects the expansion to be completed by September 2012.