Ross County Port Authority Completes First Project
PACCAR, Inc., has become the first project team to partner with the Ross County Port Authority. The company’s flagship Kenworth Truck plant, located at 165 Kenworth Drive, Chillicothe, Ohio (Ross County), manufacturers Class-8 Heavy Duty trucks and employs more than 2,200 people. The Chillicothe plant began production in 1974 and has expanded their local footprint many times of the last 50 years. Their continued investment in their operation exhibits their commitment to the local community.
The current project involves the expansion of the Chassis Department, adding 60,000 square feet to the production facility. Kenworth’s investment of $25,000,000.00 will mean the retention of 2,483 jobs and the creation of 30 new jobs over the 3-year project timeline.
The Ross County Port Authority is created
On June 13, 2024, Fluor BWXT and the JEDISO Partnership (Joint Economic Development Initiative of Southern Ohio) presented Greater Chillicothe & Ross County Development a $10,000 grant to be used in the creation of a Port Authority for Ross County.
According to the Ohio Council of Port Authorities (OCPA), Ohio Port Authorities have evolved from organizations involved solely with maritime commerce to strong partners in economic development. “The RCPA (Ross County Port Authority) will be a useful economic development tool to complement the efforts of Greater Chillicothe & Ross County Development”, states GCRCD Director Tammy Eallonardo. “It’s another step to ensure that Ross County can compete with other regions.”
Ross County Commissioners created The Ross County Port Authority by Resolution on May 22, 2024. The leadership team includes Chairman Brad Cosenza and Vice Chair Ken Shelton. Tiffany Lemaster was appointed as the Director.
Pictured from left: Tim Poe, FBP Community Commitment Fund Chair; Tammy Eallonardo, Director/GCRCD; FBP President/CEO Greg Wilkett; Tiffany Lemaster, Director/RCPA; Ken Shelton, Vice Chair/RCPA