The State of Alabama has notified Pell City officials that they can expect a $214,108 grant to assist in the Eissmann Automotive expansion.

Earlier this year, Pell City applied for Community Development Block Grant funds to assist in the Eissmann project. The funds will assist through infrastructure improvements.

“It is a pleasure to be able to reserve these funds to assist the business development, which not only benefits your area, but the entire state of Alabama,” Gov. Robert Bentley stated in a letter to city officials.

The grant will assist with water and sewer service to the building. This award requires the city provide a 20 percent match and also pay for engineering fees.

This type of grant generally has a $200,000 ceiling, but that was suspended for Pell City. The reason cited in a letter to city officials was the beneficial nature of the project for the community.

“The facility expansion is expected to add 80 new jobs by the end of 2017,” City Manager Brian Muenger said. “There is also predicted to be an additional 120 jobs by 2018.”

The grant will help with the expansion through the funding of necessary utility improvements to the site. These improvements are needed to accommodate the Eissmann expansion plans announced in June.

When Eissmann announced its expansion, it was noted in a city council meeting that additional sewer and water lines would be needed.

A 130,000 square-foot addition will be added to the facility’s current two-building complex, and the $14.5 million expansion will include advanced manufacturing equipment for its new production line.

During the last decade, Eissmann Automotive has grown to be the largest industrial employer in St. Clair County. The company started with 85 employees and now has 650. It’s estimated the expansion will account for 200 more employees.