Rep. Jim Renacci (OH-16) today released the below statement after Lockheed Martin Corp. announced it will close its facility in Akron, OH by 2015, and plans are expected to be finalized in early 2014. According to Lockheed Martin, the closure will impact 500 of the 600 employees and the Akron Air Dock will remain open:

“Upon hearing the initial reports of Lockheed’s possible consolidation plan last month, we immediately contacted the company to demand an explanation and to express our grave concern. We monitored the situation closely and worked with other members of the Ohio delegation to ensure that Lockheed maintains its current presence in Northeast Ohio.

“Today, I was deeply troubled to learn of Lockheed Martin’s decision to close its facility in Akron, OH. Following Lockheed’s notification to our office this morning, I immediately spoke with a top official from Lockheed in an effort to find a solution that would keep the Akron facility’s doors open and preserve the jobs that will be impacted. Based on our conversation, the closure is part of Lockheed’s consolidation plan that started in 2009. I am, however, encouraged to know that they will maintain the Akron Air Dock and 50-60 jobs. I stressed to Lockheed the importance of making the transition for all affected employees as smooth as possible, including providing separation pay and other benefits, and offered our assistance as they work with government agencies to achieve this.

“We will continue to meet with company leadership and employees to assist them during this extraordinarily difficult time, and I remain committed to enacting solutions that will spur economic growth and make it easier for our small businesses to create the jobs that we so desperately need. I encourage those who are affected by the facility closure to use my office as a resource, and know that my thoughts and prayers are with them and their families.”