Micro Bird's Expansion: A Boost for New York's Manufacturing Sector

Micro Bird, a joint venture between Blue Bird Corporation and Girardin, is set to establish a new manufacturing facility in Plattsburgh, New York State. This expansion promises a significant boost to the region's manufacturing sector and the creation of hundreds of jobs. Here's a closer look at the implications of this strategic move.

Micro Bird's investment of $38 million in capital expenses and training will create over 350 full-time jobs over the next five years. The company plans to produce both electric and non-electric small and mid-sized buses, contributing to New York State's commitment to growing manufacturing and supporting the transportation and green economy sectors. Empire State Development has agreed to support this project with up to $9.825 million in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits and a $2.5 million capital grant, recommended by the North Country Regional Economic Development Council.

The acquisition of the Nova Bus facility on Banker Road provides an opportunity for over 300 Nova Bus employees to transition to similar employment positions at Micro Bird. This collaboration ensures a seamless transition, preserving the skilled workforce and enabling Micro Bird to hit the ground running. The company aims to begin production in summer 2025.

Micro Bird's expansion aligns with Governor Kathy Hochul's commitment to nurturing New York's manufacturing sector. The North Country region, home to vital transportation equipment and aerospace companies, is well-positioned to benefit from this investment. The robust clean transportation manufacturing sector, which includes Beta, Alstom, and Norsk Titanium, will be further strengthened by Micro Bird's arrival.

The establishment of Micro Bird's manufacturing facility in Plattsburgh is a testament to New York State's thriving transportation cluster and the availability of highly qualified talent. With the strong support of Governor Hochul, Senator Schumer, Clinton County, and the Town of Plattsburgh, Micro Bird looks forward to a successful and sustainable future in producing high-quality buses for its US customers.

The Micro Bird joint venture is poised to have a significant impact on the Plattsburgh community and the broader North Country region. By investing in capital expenditure and training, the company is creating high-quality job opportunities and fostering a culture of excellence in manufacturing. As Micro Bird works closely with Nova Bus to ensure a smooth transition, the region can look forward to a prosperous future in the bus manufacturing industry.