State Representatives Todd McKenney (R-New Franklin), Kristina Roegner (R-Hudson) and Lynn Slaby (R-Akron) today attended the ceremonial groundbreaking of the new $161 million Goodyear corporate headquarters, which will be located in Akron. The company has committed to keep 2,900 local jobs and remain in Akron for 25 years.

Goodyear is a cornerstone of our region's rich history as well as an integral piece of our strong future,” Roegner said. “Their investment in Akron with the new headquarters is reason to celebrate."

Goodyear, which was originally founded in Akron in 1898, is a manufacturer of car, truck, farm, racing, ATV, aviation and off-road tires. The new corporate headquarters is scheduled to open in 2013.

“This groundbreaking, coming on the heels of the recent investment by Rochling Automotive, shows that the Akron area is headed in a positive direction,” McKenney said. “Local workers are well trained, and research efforts in polymers, plastics, and advanced technology are paying off.”

It is always exciting to see corporate investment in Ohio,” said Slaby. “This venture will be the catalyst for more businesses and jobs to come into Ohio. We are fortunate to have a company that has the foresight to see that Ohio will be the great state of the future.”