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Governor Bob Taft announced that Ohio has committed more than $2 million in assistance to help Honda Transmission Manufacturing of America (HTM) expand its Russells Point transmission operation. The $100 million expansion is part of a company-wide, $270 million "North American Powertrain" strategy. It is expected that the expansion will help retain 700 positions and create 100 new jobs.

For the Russells Point expansion, the state of Ohio, through the Ohio Department of Development, has committed a $1.8 million Roadwork Development grant for roadway improvements and a $200,000 Business Development grant to help with the acquisition and installation of machinery and equipment. Both grants are pending approval of the State Controlling Board. To assist HTM with specific training and other workforce development needs, the state has committed a $92,000 Ohio Investment in Training Program grant.

Since 1979, Honda has invested $6.1 billion in its Ohio facilities and provides work for more than 150 suppliers located throughout the state. Honda currently employs 16,000 Ohioans and supports (directly or indirectly) the employment of 128,000 Ohioans.

"Honda's continued growth and investment in Ohio is a testament to Ohio's workers and our business climate," says Gov. Taft. "The 25-year partnership between the state of Ohio and Honda continues to grow stronger and this plan to expand the Russells Point transmission operation shows how Honda is continuing to provide great opportunities for Ohio workers."