Decatur, IL - The Economic Development Corporation of Dccatur and Macon County (EDC), in partnership with the City of Decatur and Illinois Finance Authority (IFA), announced today that Barton Manufacturing of Decatur will undertake a nearly 5.3 million expansion of their facility.

Adding 50 manufacturing jobs to the company's expanding workforce in Decatur. Barton will move its fabrication business into a larger and refurbished facility at 600 E. Wabash adding 26,000 square Feet of manufacturing space.

In addition, Barton will begin construction of a 20,000 square foot addition to its 1395 South Taylorville Road facility to double machining capacity, "This is one more example in a series of positive news stories over the past few months where Decatur's existing businesses have chosen to stay here for their expansion projects. The recent work of city and county leaders has created a business climate that encourages our businesses to grow and prosper.

We would like to thank and congratulate Barton Manufacturing for making the right choice." said Craig Coil, President, Economic Development Corporation of Decatur and Macon County. The expansion and renovation of the property at 600 E. Wabash means the utilization of existing building space in downtown Decatur and brings new business to the Wabash Crossing area.

Mayor Paul Osborne said, "We are pleased that Barton has decided to expand its operations in downtown Decatur and on the city's south side. Their decision to reinvest in Decatur will create quality jobs, and, in the case of the Wabash facility, will help revitalize an important area of the city needing economic development." Barton Manufacturing, originally established in 1950 as Red Barton, Inc., supplies key parts and sub-assemblies requiring precision machining and welding to major U.S. manufacturers of industrial equipment.

Barton Manufacturing was able to take advantage of the Enterprise Zone benefits to make this expansion possible.