Enterprise Zone Attracts Millwork Manufacturer, 200 Jobs
Richmond - Governor George Allen announced today that Barber and Ross Millwork Company will invest $4 million to establish new manufacturing operations in Richmond. The company will employ 200 by 1999 and will operate in Richmond's North Enterprise Zone.
"I am particularly happy that this important investment is in one of the Enterprise Zones that I approved two years ago," said Governor Allen. "It's paying dividends for the people of Richmond. And Enterprise Zones, in particular, help strengthen Virginia's attractiveness and competitiveness. Enterprise Zones are an object lesson in economics -- proving that lower taxes and less regulation lea d to more investments and more jobs."
Barber and Ross, established in 1876, manufactures a wide variety of millwork products for residential home builders, including interior/exterior doors, windows, porch railings and fireplace mantels.
"We looked at the employment base, economic stability, central location, opportunity for future expansion and the quality of the builders in the area in determining Richmond as the best location for our new manufacturing plant," said Scott Joffe, vice president for Barber and Ross.
Governor Allen has been a chief proponent in the expansion of Enterprise Zones across the Commonwealth. In 1995, he won approval of a comprehensive package of changes that doubled the number of Enterprise Zones from 25 to 50, including two new zones that were awarded to the City of Richmond.
Governor Allen presented a Virginia flag to Mr. Joffe during an announcement ceremony at the company's Richmond site. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Greater Richmond Partnership and the City of Richmond assisted Barber and Ross Millwork Company with its decision. The Virginia Department of Business Assistance will provide workforce training services.