VANDLING -- Manufacturing jobs are coming to Lackawanna County thanks to more than a half-million dollars in incentives from the state.
Pretty soon, paper towels, tissues and more will come out of the plant along Route 171 in Vandling just outside Forest City.
Select Tissue, which makes products for stores including Big Lots, plans to hire 140 people over the next few years and Jeremy Noble came by to fill out an application.
"I'm laid off, was working in the natural gas industry, laid off for a while, figured time to look for something else," said Noble.
The company's owner said expanding to northeastern Pennsylvania couldn't have happened without about $600,000 in grant money and tax credits from Governor Tom Wolf's administration.
Business leaders tell Newswatch 16 location was key for Select Tissue to expand here.
"In proximity to the Procter and Gamble plant as well as they do business with Cascade had a lot to play in their locational decision since they’ll be distributing from along the east coast from this market," said Amy Luyster of the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce.
Jerry’s Sports Center left about five years ago for the Pittston area and the place has sat vacant ever since. Now the state is helping Select Tissue move in.
"I’m really excited for it. It’s Forest City. It’s a small town. Any more jobs that can come is definitely going to be good for the community," said Morgan Gasper of Forest City.
Across the street at Max's Deli, employees expect all the new workers will lead to more business.
"I do know they don’t have a lot here. With the paper products factory coming in it should help them a little bit," said Jessica Rosas of Max's Deli.
Select Tissue expects to start operations in Vandling sometime next month.