New business expected to move into Iowa Park, create jobs

The struggling economy has impacted a vast number of communities across the United States and that's certainly true in Texoma.

For example, Iowa park, which has stayed focused and strong during the dark times is now starting to see new businesses move into town.

Iowa park leaders and residents alike are ecstatic to hear that after two years of negotiating, a new business will move into a 15,000 square foot building that has been vacant for most of the time since it was built in 2005.

It is expected to bring new jobs and tax dollars to the area.

David Owen, director of economic development for the city of Iowa Park, says things are slowly starting to turn around.

He says, "Our industrial park is really starting to take off."

Owen just closed a deal with Affiliated Energy Products, a contract manufacturer, to take over the vacant builiding off Highway 287 and Industrial Park Road.

The company will bring close to 25 high skilled, manufacturing jobs to the area.

"Everyone in the city of Iowa Park realizes the importance of jobs, good paying jobs to a community," Owen says. "It's a good day for the city of Iowa Park."

AEP is looking to grow and expand in the future and Owen says there is space availble.

Owen says, "We have six acres left in our industrial park. We are looking to expand that and hopefully in the near future we'll have other companies expressing interest."

A goal that can can only benefit the community.

The Iowa Park 4A board is supplying AEP with $200,000 for modifications to the building that include the construction of walls, bathrooms and air conditioning.

They expect to have the construction all done by Nov. 15.