Haler: Areva expansion will be significant boost to local economy

Lawmaker says Tri-Cities is well positioned for expansion of high-tech jobs
Rep. Larry Haler says the announcement today by Areva to expand its Richland fuel fabrication operations is a win for both the Tri-Cities region and the state of Washington.
“I congratulate Areva for making this great decision which could provide 50 additional well-paying, high-tech jobs in our area. This is significant news, given the fact that unemployment is at a 25-year high in Washington. This consolidation will not only save money for Areva, but it will boost our local economy as the company expands its operations into the energy hub of our state,” said Haler, R-Richland.
“We are fortunate to have a highly skilled and technology-savvy workforce in the Tri-Cities which is attractive to employers such as Areva, as well as a business-friendly environment which welcomes research and development into nuclear fuels,” added Haler. “This decision demonstrates how our regional economy and families in Washington can benefit when business and government leaders work together to promote expansion of reliable, clean, carbonless energy sources, including nuclear power.”
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