Bedford County based Rockland Manufacturing has purchased the former Harbison Walker, Inc, (HWI) industrial site located in Southern Blair County. The 44-acre site has been on the market since 2018 when HWI closed their operations as part of a regional downsizing and reorganization. It currently houses more than 150,000 square feet of warehousing, office, and manufacturing space.
“This is big and positive news for our community,” said Stephen McKnight, President and CEO of the Altoona Blair County Development Corporation. “There has been interest in this rail served site in recent years, but to see it purchased by a locally controlled manufacturer is the best outcome. It will now not only help to create new jobs but also retain an existing base of employment as well,” McKnight added.
Rockland offers over 200 products, holds over 40 patents, and produces products for OEMs and construction machinery dealers globally. The firm designed and built the first wheel loader rock bucket, the world’s largest dozer blade.
“The news of the sale of the former HWI site to Rockland Manufacturing is very exciting. It is wonderful to see the reuse of this former industrial site and the creation of good, family-sustaining jobs for area residents,” said State Senator Judy Ward. “The future looks bright, and we welcome Rockland Manufacturing to Blair County,” she added.
“Rockland Manufacturing brings a reputation for quality production hiring quality people,” said State Representative Jim Gregory. “The people of Blair County welcome you with open arms.”
Initially Rockland officials expect to utilize the site for distribution and light manufacturing activity as early as this spring. Longer term plans are currently in development which will likely benefit from the rail service to support a larger manufacturing footprint.
“ABCD will be working with Rockland as they move through their redevelopment strategies and future uses become more defined. Exact employment numbers are not yet known but we expect there will be a notable impact overall,” McKnight added.
