A major manufacturing facility in Brookings is set to begin a $400 million expansion.
3M is a manufacturing company that produces several products. Its facility in Brookings is the company’s first and largest building dedicated to health care products.
The facility is scheduled to get even larger with a series of expansions. The first phase is expected to cost around $150 million. It includes 200,000 new feet of manufacturing area, 16 new shipping docks, a new lab and office spaces. Construction will be spread out over a three-year period.
The State Board of Economic Development worked with 3M and the city of Brookings to establish reasons for the company to invest growth in South Dakota. The Board approved a $14 million grant for the 3M expansion.
The CEO of the Brookings Economic Development Corporation is Tim Reed. He believes the investment 3M has made into the community has lasting effects.
“I think what it tells the community is that we got a great you know long-term economic health for Brookings,” said Reed. “When companies like this want to grow in Brookings it helps improve our economy. Which just helps the whole community when it comes to income level and amenities that are available. More people you have in town the more amenities that you can have in the community.”
Brookings Mayor Ope Niemeyer credits Reed among others for his contribution to making the company feel supported by the community. Niemeyer says he is excited for the future of Brookings and looks forward the jobs the expansion will create.
