May 5, 2009
AINSWORTH PLEDGES MONEY TO HELP FIND NEW TENANTS
ST. PAUL--The city of Grand Rapids might be one step closer to finding a new tenant for the closed Ainsworth OSB Plant, which is good news for the entire Iron Range, said Rep. Loren Solberg (DFL-Grand Rapids.)
Ainsworth closed plants in Grand Rapids, Cook and Bemidji as a result of the downturn in home construction. The company recently pledged to maintain and help market the closed sites for at least two years, including the facility in Grand Rapids.
"This is good news. It's going to be easier to get a new tenant in there with Ainsworth's cooperation. A maintained building is more attractive to potential clients," Solberg said. "My hope is that we can get someone in there soon and get the people who lost their jobs back to work. We will continue to partner with the local leaders and Ainsworth to get something done."
Under the new agreement, Ainsworth will provide $150,000 to be split among the three sites for the purpose of determining feasible alternative uses for the facilities. After this feasibility study, Ainsworth has agreed to work with the State of Minnesota, the IRRB and legislators to enhance the solicitation of buyers for the three sites.
"I am pleased that Ainsworth stepped up to the plate," Solberg said. "The recession will end and when it does we will need sites like this to employ workers and meet demand."
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