Gov. Nixon announced another win for Missouri’s growing automotive industry. Dana Light Axle Products plans to expand its manufacturing plant in Columbia, where it currently produces parts for major OEMs including Ford, GM and Nissan. The company’s $39 million expansion is expected to create 135 new jobs over the next few years, as well as retain its current workforce of 90 team members.
“I appreciate Dana Light Axle Products’ significant expansion in Columbia, and its contribution to Missouri’s revitalized auto industry,” Gov. Nixon said. “The historic investments made by Ford and GM in Missouri continue to pave the way for auto suppliers to grow and succeed, creating jobs for hard working Missourians throughout the state.”
Dana Incorporated was founded in 1904 and has more than 90 major facilities in 25 countries on six continents. The company started production at the Columbia facility, which is located on LeMone Industrial Boulevard, in 1988.
“Columbia, Missouri is an excellent place to live and a great place for business,” said Scott Wright, plant manager at Dana Light Axle Products Columbia Facility. “Our company and family of employees are proud to be part of the community here. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional products and services to our customers throughout the automotive marketplace and we look forward to this proposed expansion, which will likely extend our plant’s operations into the future.”
The first phase of this project is expected to begin later this year.
Dana Light Axle Products joins the more than 64 automotive plant and parts suppliers that have announced expansions in Missouri in recent years, strengthening the state’s manufacturing sector and creating and retaining more than 16,200 auto jobs throughout the state. Total automotive employment has rebounded, providing jobs to more than 24,000 Missourians. The announcement by Dana Light Axle Products follows a report issued by the Brookings Institution that ranked Missouri 6th in the nation for annual job growth in the advanced manufacturing industry.
To help Dana Light Axle Products with its expansion, the state offered a strategic economic incentive package that the company can receive if it meets strict job creation criteria. Boone County as well as the Regional Economic Development Inc. (REDI) also assisted the company with its expansion. This evening, the Boone County Chapter 100 Review Committee approved the company for a property tax abatement.