Schumer Urges Emerson Power Transmission To Preserve Ithaca Jobs In Light Of Headquarters Relocation

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Schumer Urges Emerson Power Transmission To Preserve Ithaca Jobs In Light Of Headquarters Relocation

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today urged Emerson Power Transmission preserve its manufacturing jobs as the company transitions its headquarters from Ithaca to Kentucky. Although high-level management positions will be relocated, Schumer will work with the company to avoid a further reduction in the Ithaca operations.

"I am eager to work with Emerson Power Transmission to ensure that no other jobs are affected by this headquarters move," said Schumer. "This company has a long, rich history in the Ithaca area and we must ensure that legacy continues. Emerson provides high-quality jobs that are vital to the health of the entire region and I will do everything in my power to preserve those jobs through this transition period."

Last week, Emerson Power Transmission announced that it was relocating its headquarters from Ithaca to Kentucky. This transition will include the move of 55 high-level management jobs; however, the 400 production employees are currently slated to remain at the Ithaca facility. The Emerson facility in Ithaca is part of a long legacy of manufacturing that dates back to 1928 when Borg Warner operated Morse Chain at the site.

"For nearly 80 years, the area's skilled and dedicated workforce has adapted to changes in ownership and an evolving manufacturing landscape to produce a top flight product. I hope to keep it that way," said Senator Schumer. In a personal letter to Emerson Power Transmission CEO, Tony Pike, Schumer wrote, "I do recognize the pressures that a company like Emerson Power Transmission faces in the global economy and the importance for you to have the conditions that will allow you to remain competitive. To that end, it is important that we work together to identify any needs that Emerson may have in both the near and long term. Whether the issue is workforce development and retention, the high cost of energy, or business taxes and incentives, I stand ready to be of assistance. Let's do what we can to ensure that Ithaca provides a good home for Emerson for many, many years to come."

Schumer said that one of Emerson's top concerns about the area is accessibility, as Ithaca area has been devoid of high-quality, low-cost air service. Schumer said he promised to continue his long term efforts to boost air service to the region.

Since Schumer's election to the senate, he has worked hard to improve the regions accessibility so that businesses located in and around Ithaca could continue to flourish. Improving the air-service to upstate New York has always been a high priority for Schumer and an important part of fueling economic development in the area. In 2005, Schumer secured a $500,000 Small Communities Air Service Development grant to help airport officials attract and promote new service.

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