East-Central Indiana update.

• Author: Mathew, Jan

High unemployment and restructurings are finally yesterday's news in the east-central part of the state. This summer, headlines herald the long-awaited return of industrial expansions, downtown beautification projects and new residential developments.

MADISON COUNTY

There's a bright light at the end of the tunnel in Madison County, where the ongoing restructuring of General Motors is beginning to reap some unanticipated benefits.

Anderson's Delco Remy America, maker of automotive starters and alternators and an offshoot of GM's restructuring, has leased three additional buildings and is constructing a fourth. The manufacturer's operations are spread among seven local state-of-the-art "focus factories." Delco Remy employs around 1,600 people.

In another GM spinoff, Delphi Interior Lighting will soon become Guide Corp. The sale will also make the exterior lighting manufacturer the county's largest employer with a workforce of 2,800.

Even with the recent changes, GM still maintains a sizable operation in Anderson. Delphi Energy and Engine Management Systems, or Delphi E, plans to invest in new equipment and to maintain a stable workforce of about 2,200.

"We're still experiencing a transition from the General Motors downsizing, but it's working out in an interesting way," observes John Hagen, executive director of Anderson's Corporation for Economic Development.

"The spin-off divisions of GM are benefiting from new investment and are starting to grow. They're positioned strongly for the future."

Tomato processor Red Gold has consolidated its operations in a new 400,000-square-foot warehouse in Orestes. The company employs 380 people.

Smaller manufacturers also are benefiting from Madison County's changing business climate.

U.S. Leisure, a maker of patio furniture, will move into a 600,000-square-foot facility once occupied by GM by the end of summer. A neighboring 90,000-square-foot facility is being readied for Electric Vehicles International, a manufacturer of electric buses and route vehicles.

American Playground, which has been in Anderson since 1911, recently completed a 40,000-square-foot manufacturing facility. The relocation was American Playground's first move from its original location.

GRANT COUNTY

Among the biggest stories to pop out of Grant County is Weaver Popcorn's plan to expand operations in Van Buren. A fourth-generation family-owned business, Weaver is the world's largest popcorn processor. The company employs about 300...