The Bedford County Development Association and Cell-Con, Inc. celebrated a dual ribbon cutting event at the new BCDA Business Center in the Bedford County Business Park. Inc.
“This project is more than just a building, it’s a catalyst for economic growth,” noted Jeff Crist, BCDA Board Chair.”
Planning for the project began in 2018 when BCDA realized that there was a lack of buildings to accommodate expanding local businesses and the recruitment of new businesses.
Throughout the next six years, the project unfolded, evolving into a 24,000 sq. ft. facility with a $6.4 budget. Key milestones included securing state and federal grants and loans from a variety of agencies.
As the project progressed, local business Cell-Con reached out to BCDA looking for additional space. The fit with the new building was perfect and Cell-Con became the anchor tenant.
“As a result of this building, Cell-Con, Inc. will continue to strive to be a leading manufacturer of rechargeable battery packs for various applications,” Gene Kiley, CEO Cell-Con, Inc.
Cell-Con, Inc. is a leading U.S. manufacturer of custom and stocked battery packs and power systems. Since incorporating in 1983, Cell-Con has served as a world class supplier to Original Equipment Manufacturers in the medical, industrial, military, transportation, instrumentation, utility/metering, RFID, robotic and data acquisition markets.
“This building will provide local companies with the ability to expand and stay in Bedford County as well as a tool to recruit businesses into the area,” Representative Jesse Topper.
“Thanks to BCDA’s efforts along with the State of Pennsylvania, we are moving into this incredible new building that will allow Cell-Con to have the needed space for material storage, space for production, assembly and testing of the packs along with a dedicated R&D area,” Kevin Harkleroad, Cell-Con, Inc. Engineering Manager.
“I’m thrilled to see this business center become a hub for Bedford County commerce. There’s power in collaboration and bringing organizations together that drives economic growth and further innovation,” Senator Pat Stefano.
“The Shapiro Administration congratulates BCDA on completing this project and thanks them for their continued efforts to provide opportunities for businesses in Bedford County,” said Mandy Book, DCED Deputy Secretary of Business Finance. “From PIDA loans that helped create and retain more than 1,600 jobs to a recent award through the PA SITES program, success stories like this are at the heart of the Governor’s Economic Development Strategy. We’re proud to partner with BCDA in their efforts to keep businesses in Pennsylvania and provide them with opportunities to grow and thrive.”
A major part of BCDA’s work is to retain and create jobs while growing our economy. We do it in numerous ways…. entrepreneurial development, low interest loan financing, marketing, outdoor recreation initiatives and, as is evident today, the development of real estate to meet the needs of expanding local businesses and to recruit new employers to our area.
“This building is more than just a structure; it is a symbol of identifying a need, developing a solid plan and working together to achieve great things,” Bette Slayton, BCDA President & CEO.