Gov. Gregoire�s statement on Caterpillar expansion

For Immediate Release: June 23, 2011

Gov. Chris Gregoire today issued the following statement on the announcement by Caterpillar Logistics Services, Inc. that it plans to open a new parts distribution center in Spokane. When fully operational in 2012, the new facility will add more than 100 new jobs to the Spokane area:

�I offer my congratulations to Spokane area leadership and Greater Spokane Incorporated, who worked tirelessly to ensure the Caterpillar expansion happened in the Inland Northwest. I�m also pleased to be a partner in this effort � offering $235,000 in Workforce Investment Act and Strategic Reserve Account funding to ensure the company has what it needs to remain successful in Washington state.

�This is a small investment to help create more than 100 new jobs � which is good for Spokane and the entire state of Washington as we move toward a full economic recovery. I thank Caterpillar for their confidence in Washington state, and pledge to work with the company to ensure future success.�

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