Owens-Illinois Obtains Permits for New Plant in Weld County, Colorado

As a result, initial site work has begun with surveying and staking of the grounds in preparation for earthwork and excavation of the plant's foundation.The approximately 450,000-square-foot facility is estimated to start production late second quarter of 2005.

"We are pleased to reach this important milestone for the project because it brings us closer to becoming part of the local community. We are gratified that the many governmental entities who granted us the needed permits recognize our reputation as a responsible company and conscientious environmental steward," says Robert A. Smith, O-I General Manager of Glass Containers North America.

The site is located in Weld County at 11133 County Road 64-3/4, east of the Eastman Kodak Company and Metal Container Corporation facilities.

O-I first announced plans for a new plant in February 2003. The Weld County site was selected in September 2003 after evaluating several locations in Northeast Colorado and Southeast Wyoming. The new high-productivity plant will produce 12-ounce beer bottles.