Here’s what company, state, local and economic development officials are saying following Thursday’s announcement Kimberly-Clark will build a manufacturing plant in the former RG Steel site, located in Howland and Warren townships.

“Ohio’s deep commitment to workforce development further reinforced Kimberly-Clark’s decision to choose Trumbull County for its newest investment. We look forward to partnering with Kimberly-Clark as it constructs a cutting-edge facility and scales its production with skilled talent from the Mahoning Valley.”

— Jim Tressel, Ohio lieutenant governor

“This project is particularly significant as it represents the largest industrial investment in Warren since the 1960s, signaling a new era of prosperity and diversification for our community. It will transform the former Republic Steel site into a modern hub of innovation, creating over 900 high-quality jobs and breathing new life into a location that holds deep historic significance for our community. It’s a powerful symbol of how far we’ve come–and how bright our future can be.”

— Doug Franklin, Warren mayor

“Our investment in Warren is a pivotal step forward in our North America business and strategy. By establishing a new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Ohio, we’re enhancing our ability to serve millions of consumers across the Midwest and Northeast with greater speed, agility and resilience. It’s a once-in-a-career opportunity to build a facility from the ground up that reflects the future of manufacturing, and with the support of local partners like JobsOhio, the Department of Development, Lake to River, Western Reserve Port Authority and local governments, we have the unique opportunity to create high-quality jobs and long-term economic impact in the region.”

— Tamera Fenske, Kimberly-Clark,

chief supply chain officer

“This project is the culmination of deep, sustained engagement by our team to build trust with Kimberly-Clark and demonstrate the real value of locating in Trumbull County. From early conversations to site tours and collaborative problem-solving, we worked closely with local, regional, and state partners to ensure Kimberly-Clark had access to every resource and incentive they needed to feel confident in choosing this community. It’s incredibly rewarding to see that effort result in an investment of this magnitude, and we’re ready to keep that momentum going as they move into the next phase.”

— Alexa Sweeney Blackann,

Lake to River, interim CEO

“Big wins like this are the result of vision, preparation and partnership. We worked hand-in-hand with our partners to prepare this site, showcase its potential, and open the door for Kimberly-Clark’s investment. Today, Trumbull County is positioned for a powerful new chapter — one defined by jobs, growth, and lasting momentum.”

— Lydia Mihalik, Ohio Department

of Development, director

“The decision to invest in Trumbull County shows the strength of our workforce and logistics infrastructure. I am grateful for the local partners, like Lake to River and JobsOhio, for helping execute this major project that will help bring hundreds of good-paying jobs to the region. This long-term investment here at home sets the stage for even more growth in our community.”

— U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce, R-Bainbridge Township

“Wins like this validate the bold vision that brought Lake to River into existence. This is one of the largest private economic development projects our region has seen in a generation.”

— Chuck George, Lake to River, board chairman

“This is an exciting day for Trumbull County and all of eastern Ohio. Kimberly-Clark’s commitment to building a state-of-the-art facility here is a testament to the planning, collaboration and competitiveness that define our community. With nearly 500 permanent jobs and hundreds more in construction, this project represents real opportunity for local families — and it proves that when we invest in site readiness and talent, companies like Kimberly-Clark choose Ohio.”

— State Rep. Nick Santucci, R-Niles

“On behalf of the Western Reserve Port Authority and our board of directors, I would like to commend Kimberly-Clark’s board of directors on this monumental announcement. From the very beginning, our support for this project has been steadfast, and we remain committed through every phase of its development.”

— Martin Loney, Western Reserve

Port Authority, chairman

“This generational investment in Howland Township, the City of Warren and Warren Township will have positive impacts in Mahoning and Trumbull counties and support the long-term vision of the Valley.”

— Sam Covelli, Western Reserve

Port Authority, vice chairman