Groundbreaking for Industrial Expansion in Oelwein

Iowa Governor Terry Branstad, Mayor Peggy Sherrets, and representatives of Oelwein's economic development have taken part in turning over some dirt for a major industrial expansion.
East Penn Manufacturing, a maker and distributor of lead-acid batteries, will be creating 350 jobs with their expansion in the industrial park in Oelwein.

Governor Branstad participated in Tuesday's groundbreaking, and spoke to the crowd of people on the southeast side of town.

Branstad noted the state played a major role in helping East Penn and Oelwein in this economic boost.

Other local and state dignitaries also participated in the event, with the ceremonial dirt shoveling.

The new East Penn plant will be located in the Industrial Park just east of the RAMS center in Oelwein. Construction work has already begun, and is slated for completion by the end of 2017.