Vactor Manufacturing, an industry-leading manufacturer of sewer and catch basin cleaners, jetters, industrial vacuum loaders and TRUVAC vacuum excavators, is expanding its manufacturing facility in Streator, Illinois. The project is expected to increase Vactor’s production capacity and add up to 90 additional jobs at the facility.

“We are excited to announce this expansion of our Streator facility as it represents the culmination of many years of investment in developing new products and expanding our customer base,” said Sam Miceli, vice president and general manager of Vactor. “It also underscores Vactor’s ongoing commitment to its workforce and this community; both have been — and continue to be — outstanding partners in our growth.”

The first phase of the project will expand the existing fabrication, welding, paint and assembly areas, as well as the test bays. Additionally, the current training center and customer inspection facility will be updated. Overall, the expansion will add 170,000 square feet to the existing facility. Construction is expected to be complete by the end of 2019.

Vactor’s parent company, Federal Signal Corporation, is expecting to invest up to $25 million over the course of the expansion project, which will increase efficiency and capacity to supply the growing demand for Vactor’s newly redesigned 2100i combination sewer cleaner and the TRUVAC branded series of hydroexcavators.

Collaborative effort with state of Illinois

The project received assistance and support from the state of Illinois, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the city of Streator, and the Greater Livingston County Economic Development Council.

“We are pleased Vactor is expanding and investing in our city,” said Jimmie Lansford, mayor of Streator. “Success in attracting additional investments to this area of Illinois is the result of the collaborative efforts of state and local government officials, our local economic development organizations, and robust incentives to support growth.”

DCEO provides intergovernmental coordination on behalf of companies seeking new opportunities for economic development.

“We are thrilled to partner with Vactor to spur job growth and increase its investment in Streator,” said Erin Guthrie, acting director of the DCEO. “DCEO looks forward to continuing to work alongside the new administration to jumpstart manufacturing and ensure local businesses have the tools they need to thrive.”

“The administration is committed to helping local companies expand their footprint, create jobs, and contribute to our economy,” said Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. “With this significant investment and the addition of 90 new jobs, Vactor is growing deeper roots in Streator that will have a positive economic impact on the region for years to come.”

Milestone year for Vactor

In addition to the facility expansion, 2019 marks the 50th anniversary of the introduction of Vactor Manufacturing’s first combination sewer cleaner featuring water jetting and vacuuming.

“For 50 years, Vactor Manufacturing has been at the forefront of developing combination sewer cleaners featuring innovative technology, user advantages and customized solutions,” Miceli said. “Public works professionals and others involved in cleaning and maintaining sewers and catch basins recognize Vactor as the first name in sewer cleaners. The Vactor 2100i combination sewer cleaner, introduced in 2018, is the latest entry in a distinguished line of industry firsts in sewer cleaning technology from Vactor.”