BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP -- A project to expand water and natural gas service to an industrial location in Susquehanna County now has the money to move ahead.
Diaz Manufacturing employs a couple hundred people in the Montrose area where it makes hardwood products.
Now that both water and natural gas hookups are in the works south of town, the operation plans to move and expand. Officials hope it's just one of part of economic growth in the area.
Not far from downtown Montrose sits Ellsworth Drive just off Route 29. It's where the Susquehanna County jail and the recycling center are located. In the not too distant future, a huge manufacturing facility is planned for a vacant property. It's all made possible by a project to extend water and natural gas service by the end of the year.
Bill Kelley owns Taylor Rental, which has relied on the natural gas industry, but recently had to lay off employees during a slow-down in business.
"Finally, the natural gas line as well as water is going to be coming down which is exciting for small business," Kelley said.
Kelley looks forward to hooking up to water and gas, made possible by about a half-million dollars in state grant money, natural gas impact fee money, and the utility companies.
"The more exciting thing is we'll see some growth. We need jobs just like everyone else, again with gas like it has been, it's been very difficult for a lot of young families."
According to county officials, Diaz Manufacturing has outgrown its current facility and will build out on Ellsworth Drive now that water and gas will be hooked up there. The old place will be torn down and developed for more business.
Joe Andre and others have worked for years to get water and gas hookups to Ellsworth Drive, especially since the county's jail has dealt with low water levels in its drinking water well for years.
"We'll get some water problems resolved and in the future if South Montrose wants, they can tag onto the water and natural gas," said Andre.
Not only could the water line expansion mean more business, but better pressure if there's a fire.
Work isn't expected to start until summer or fall.
According to officials, Diaz Manufacturing plans to hire 20 more people when it moves to its future location.