Rhoads Industries is set to enhance its manufacturing capabilities at the Philadelphia Navy Yard with a significant $4 million investment from the Commonwealth.
This announcement is part of a series of major investments in Pennsylvania, including a recent $20 billion deal with Amazon, marking the largest private sector investment in the state’s history.
Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed budget for 2025-26 aims to sustain this momentum with further investments in Pennsylvania’s economic growth.
Philadelphia, PA
The Commonwealth has secured a substantial investment from Rhoads Industries to expand operations at Philadelphia Navy Yard, with expectations to create 450 new jobs and retain over 500 existing positions.
Rhoads plans to construct a new 95,000-square-foot facility to bolster production for the U.S. Navy’s submarine program, featuring continuous fabrication and direct pier access for shipping.
Governor Shapiro expressed pride in the investment, saying, “Shipbuilding has always been key part of Philadelphia’s identity and our economy, and today, I’m proud to announce that Rhoads Industries is investing $100 million and creating over 450 new jobs at the Navy Yard.” He emphasized the historical and economic significance of the expansion, supported by more than $17 million in Commonwealth investments over the last decade.
The project is backed by a $4 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant from the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), with Rhoads benefiting from tax savings through its location in a Keystone Opportunity Zone.
DCED Secretary Rick Siger highlighted the investment’s role in bolstering both national and economic security, aligning with the Governor’s strategy to strengthen key industries in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
Rhoads Industries, a nearly 130-year-old family-owned business, specializes in large-scale industrial fabrication and maritime services, and this investment is expected to accelerate their production and hiring efforts by a year, according to CEO Dan Rhoads, Jr.
The company also offers an accredited apprenticeship program in partnership with Boilermakers Local 19, training high school graduates for careers in the submarine industrial base.
The Shapiro Administration has significantly increased funding for career and technical education, creating new apprenticeships and training programs across the state, benefiting over 33,000 Pennsylvanians in various industries.
Boots Olson, a welding apprentice at Rhoads, shared his positive experiences with the program, noting its impact on his skills and appreciation for the trade.
The Philadelphia Navy Yard continues to grow as an innovation and manufacturing hub, a priority in the Shapiro Administration’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy.
Greg Deavens, Board Chair of The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, praised the collaboration between public and private sectors, highlighting the Shapiro Administration’s efforts to catalyze local economies and job creation.
Governor Shapiro and Secretary Siger recently visited the Philadelphia Navy Yard to showcase a $30 million investment through the PA SITES program, enhancing the area’s potential for advanced manufacturing and other industries.
This initiative follows the historic $20 billion investment from Amazon, part of the Shapiro Administration’s achievement of securing over $25.2 billion in private investments and creating nearly 11,000 jobs.
Representative Jordan Harris commended the Governor’s leadership in prioritizing real action over rhetoric, ensuring economic development translates into tangible benefits for Pennsylvania.
The Shapiro Administration’s Ongoing Commitment
Governor Shapiro’s administration continues to drive economic growth through strategic planning, including the Economic Development Strategy and reducing tax burdens to attract and retain businesses.
Key budget proposals include:
- $12.5 million for WEDnetPA to enhance the workforce
- $2 million for Career Connect internships
- $10 million in AdvancePA tax credits
- $3 million for business attraction marketing
- Accelerated Corporate Net Income Tax reductions
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