While many communities are seeing shuttered businesses and job losses, Valparaiso has recently welcomed new and expanding businesses and is posting the lowest unemployment rates in Northwest Indiana. “Our aggressive economic development approach has helped us to overcome a tough economy, attracting new businesses and creating jobs,” said Mayor Jon Costas. “We’re making economic development a top priority,” he said.
Local businesses have committed more than $20 million to projects in Valparaiso in the past year alone, which will result in more than 50 new permanent jobs, in addition to the construction projects. Some of the most notable business additions include:
- North Coast Distributing will expand and relocate its facility to a 225,000 square foot warehouse and office facility to be built on Ind. 49, across from the Porter County Sheriff’s Department. The $15 million project will retain 140 employees.
- UGN Inc. is investing $3 million to add a 16,200 square foot warehouse to its facility in the Montdale Industrial Park, adding 28 new jobs to its current staff of 249.
- Waste Revelation is preparing to rehab the long-vacant Harvey’s building to house its business, as well as additional space for lease. The company will spend $1.3 million and plans to more than double its staff to 20 within four years.
- Sensit Technologies is investing $850,000 to nearly double the size of its Valparaiso operations, adding 10 new employees and expanding its market to 55 countries.
“I like what I see happening in Valparaiso and the fact that the city is working proactively to bring in business, especially during a tough economy,” said Cole Doolittle, Owner of Waste Revelation, which has chosen Valparaiso for their new professional office facility. “I can’t see anywhere in the city that isn’t opening the door and saying ‘please come in.’ I work with a lot of municipalities in my business and I’ve never seen one that moves on action like I see Valpo doing,” he said.
Valparaiso’s investments in downtown streetscaping and the addition of 10 three-say liquor licenses are also paying off as Valpo has become a true dining destination. “Our downtown is busy every day of the week and we look forward to opening Central Park Plaza to host even more events,” said Tina St. Aubin, Executive Director of Valparaiso Community Festivals and Events. “Diners come to eat and to shop and enjoy our city,” she said.
“We have a lot to offer businesses and we gain from the added variety, jobs, tax revenue and positive thinking,” said Mayor Costas. “As we see the economy improving, we’re excited to have such positive things in place to offer new business. Stay tuned. More good things are coming,” he said.