End of an era: GE moving locomotive production out of Erie

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Written by: Stuart Chirls, Senior Editor
Leading locomotive manufacturer General Electric is shifting production of its diesel-electric locomotives from its facility in Erie, Pa., to Texas, and cutting 575 jobs.

The company in a statement said the move comes on domestic sales of locomotives that have dropped 10%, and higher international orders. GE is the leading maker of locomotives.

"Given these market realities and the need for cost competitiveness across our global markets, GE Transportation announced its intent to transfer production of locomotives and kits for international customers to the GE Manufacturing Solutions facility in Forth Worth, TX from Erie, PA. The move is necessary to drive efficiency, better complete in the increasingly competitive global market, and preserve U.S. jobs."

General Electric has produced locomotives at its plant in Lawrence Park, Pa., since 1910, most recently as GE Transportation. The facility will continue to operate in design, engineering, prototype development and components production, said GE Chief Executive Jamie Miller in a letter to employees.

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