Construction of a new 150,000-square-foot manufacturing facility is progressing out on Wolverine Road, between Harrison and Kickapoo, where Georg Fischer Central Plastics is making a $30M investment to accommodate the company’s growing business needs. The new plant is also expected to bring 300 full-time jobs upon opening.

GF Central Plastics is North America’s largest single-source manufacturer of metal and polyethylene pipe joining products in the gas and municipal water utility industry.

James Jackson, Head of Business Unit Americas for GF Piping Systems, welcomed guests to an official groundbreaking ceremony back in November 2023, with a construction timeline expected to continue through Spring 2025.

“Our decision to invest in Shawnee reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone in our GF Central Plastics division,” Jackson said.

The New Metals Facility is being built on a 40-acre site that was purchased from Shawnee Forward. Upon completion of the new facility, GF Central Plastics will relocate its gas meter fabrication department to the new location, freeing space at its established West Independence Street plant for more growth in its plastics manufacturing business. The Wolverine Road site will also house offices, a warehouse, and shipping and receiving services.

Designed by Tap Architecture in consultation with Entegrity Partners, the project will seek LEED Silver certification for its sustainable design and construction. Under the direction of Evans Construction, work at Wolverine Road is expected to continue through the spring of 2025.

Watch for updates.