Alstom has opened a new 135,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Hornell, New York. Known as Plant 4, the site is one of the few in the United States equipped to produce stainless steel car body shells for passenger rail vehicles. The plant expands Alstom’s domestic production capacity and adds new capabilities to support a range of rail projects.
Previously, Alstom manufactured these components for U.S. contracts at its facility in Brazil. The decision to bring production to Hornell is part of the company’s effort to strengthen domestic rail manufacturing and shorten supply chains. With this investment, Hornell becomes the largest passenger train production site in the country.
Production at Plant 4 will begin with 200 multilevel commuter rail cars for Chicago’s Metra transit system. The project is expected to create 258 new jobs and retain 390 current positions in Hornell. The new roles will include positions in manufacturing, mechatronics, and robotics.
“This facility represents a major step in expanding our U.S. manufacturing footprint and supporting rail development nationwide,” said Michael Keroullé, President of Alstom Americas. “We appreciate the support from state and local leaders in making this possible.”
The $75 million investment includes work from 40 contractors and was supported by multiple government programs, including funding and incentives from Empire State Development, the U.S. Economic Development Administration, the City of Hornell Industrial Development Agency, and other federal and state partners.
The new facility will use automated welding systems to assemble large-scale railcar components. Advanced robotics technology, including artificial intelligence systems, will ensure high precision and safety during the production process.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul called the expansion a sign of renewed manufacturing strength in the region. “Alstom’s decision to reshore this production is bringing back union jobs and building on Hornell’s long history in the rail sector,” she said.
Local officials praised the investment for its impact on the regional economy. Hornell Mayor John Buckley noted the city’s long-standing connection to rail manufacturing and said the project reinforces that identity. Leaders from the Southern Tier Regional Economic Development Council, the IAM Union, and SUNY Delhi also expressed support, emphasizing job creation, workforce development, and long-term economic benefits.
The plant is named in honor of the late James W. Griffin, former Executive Director of the Hornell Industrial Development Agency, who was a strong advocate for rail manufacturing in the region. Alstom says Plant 4 will help meet growing demand for rail equipment in the United States while supporting its broader strategy of localizing production and maintaining high quality standards through automation and advanced engineering.
