Gratz, Pa.-based manufacturer MI Windows and Doors LLC is expanding capacity at its headquarters site with a 90,000-square-foot addition that will create 97 new jobs.
The supplier of vinyl and aluminum windows and patio doors is adding two vinyl window production lines, an automated glass room and a training center at the site as part of a $27 million investment.
The expansion project also will improve safety features for employees — 1,528 people work there now — with separate parking areas for team members and trucks as well as dedicated pedestrian and forklift lanes inside the facility.
The expansion coincides with a recent increase in the starting rate of pay per hour for MI manufacturing team members across the country. The company says it has more than 10 manufacturing sites.
Pay is going up to $20 an hour in Pennsylvania, according to a news release from Gov. Tom Wolf.
"We have a rich history in Central Pennsylvania, and we're excited to expand our presence here," MI CEO Matt DeSoto said in the release. "This project will add great-paying jobs and increase our production capabilities, making it a win-win for our team, our community and our customers."
MI is eligible for funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development in the form of a $485,000 PA First grant and a $291,000 grant for workforce training. The company also was encouraged to apply for a $2.4 million low-interest loan through the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority.
Construction is expected to be completed in early 2022.
"The building industry is growing and we're excited to be part of that growth," DeSoto said. "This project creates a better environment for our team while increasing our production capabilities so we can continue providing our customers with the windows, doors and value-added services they need."
MI manufactures three brands of windows for new construction and replacement applications, including MI Windows and Doors, Milgard Windows & Doors, and Sunrise Windows & Doors.
Private equity firm Riverside Co. sold vinyl window maker Sunrise Windows & Doors to MI Windows and Doors for an undisclosed price in December 2020.
Under Riverside's ownership, Sunrise had completed a 71,000-square-foot expansion that allowed the firm to consolidate three facilities and enhance operations.