News

One Southern Indiana President Responds to Jeffboat Closure Announcement

New Albany, Ind. (March 26, 2018) – The following statement was released by One Southern Indiana (1si) President and CEO Wendy Dant Chesser in response to the Jeffboat closure announcement:

“We are saddened to learn that Jeffboat will be closing in the next three to six weeks, due to the significant drop in demand for barge construction over the last three years.”

“The announcement to close Jeffboat will affect up to 170 employees and their families. One Southern Indiana (1si) stands ready to assist in any transition plan to help the effected employees identify other sustainable work opportunities in our region.”

“This could likely involve displacement services for the employees or retraining opportunities through partner organizations like Work One and Ivy Tech. 1si will also reach out to local vendors and suppliers that may suffer negative effects of this decision.   Since the two Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notifications (WARN) notices, submitted in November 2017, and February 2018, 1si has had several companies from throughout the metro area inquire about hiring any displaced employees.”

“As the state recognized local economic development organization (LEDO) for Clark and Floyd counties, 1si engages in economic development on behalf of the community because it builds healthy economies throughout the region that support a stronger community at large.  The attraction of new companies to Southern Indiana not only helps lessen the impact of a specific business or industry closing its doors but also ensures there will always be a high demand for skilled laborers, now and in the future.”

“We implore the officials of Jeffboat to consider the community, its needs and the future of regional business and talent attraction and retention, when creating a transition plan for the 80-acre property with one mile of river front currently occupied by the shipyard.  “

About One Southern Indiana:

One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 from the Economic Development organization serving Clark and Floyd counties and the Chamber of Commerce.  1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area.

Since its inception, the organization has evolved to include a three-prong approach to serve its members and investors.  Business Resources, as the chamber side of the organization, encompasses membership, signature events and programs which support and encourage business growth;  Economic Development works to grow the regional economy through the attraction of new commerce and assists with retention and expansion of existing businesses;  Advocacy supports businesses at the government level by engaging in the initiatives to preserve, protect and promote a business friendly environment free of obstacles to growth and development of commerce.  More information on One Southern Indiana is available at: www.1si.org

Media Contacts:

One Southern Indiana — Suzanne Ruark, (812) 945-0266, SuzanneR@1si.org