GIBSON CO., IN (WFIE) -
Toyota's Gibson County plant will be adding 400 new jobs and be making a $400 million investment.
The plant will make 50,000 more Highlander Hybrids and Highlander Exports.
Toyota says that increased production of the Highlander will start in late 2013, right at the time the Highlander will no longer be made in Japan.
"It's a great day. Like I told somebody else, it's an early Valentine's Day present for us," said Princeton Mayor Bob Hurst.
Hurst says, in the past, Toyota has done a lot for the community.
"They did sidewalks, they did streetlights, they refurbished Gil Hodges Field."
Now, Toyota will be boosting local economy by bringing 400 new jobs to the Tri-State.
They say the volume of Highlanders at the Gibson County plant will increase by 500,000 units, including Hybrid and export versions of the mid-size SUV.
Toyota says they'll be exporting vehicles to Australia and Russia, making a model with the steering wheel on the right.
At Wednesday's announcement, Toyota told an excited crowd, not only the local, but also the global impacts this news brings.
"Us learning about other customers and preferences has really kept us on our toes, about how to produce the very highest quality vehicle," said TMMI President Norm Bafunno.
Bafunno says this will also mean some changes and promotions for current Toyota employees, who tell 14 News they know the need for jobs in the area is there.
"I actually got a text message during the meeting asking if Toyota was hiring, so I'll be able to answer him and I'm very excited," said TMMI West Assembly Safety Team Leader Glen Fehr.
Toyota says the hiring for those 400 new positions will begin later this summer
Toyota Motors stock is up 149 points Wednesday. Click here to check their current stock prices.
To apply for jobs at TMMI, click here.
Stay with 14 News for the latest coverage on this big announcement.
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