Local officials are responding to Thursday’s announcement from Caterpillar that it plans to shutter its Wamego facility sometime next year.
Wamego City Manager Stacie Eichem says they learned of the situation late in the day Thursday.
Eichem says the announcement comes as a major blow to the community.
Pottawatomie County Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Shanna Goodman provided the following statement Friday morning.
“This news is a significant disappointment for our entire region, as Caterpillar has been an integral part of our community for decades. We are actively collaborating with regional partners to provide resources and support for displaced workers. However, with every challenge comes an opportunity. While we may not solve this issue today, I have full confidence that we can turn this situation into something positive for our community.”
Caterpillar employs around 400 people at its Wamego plant. The company says it plans to close the Wamego facility in mid-2025.
