While Intel is going to lay off 100 to 200 employees at its Rio Rancho plant, and 6,000 worldwide, the company will also be spending a significant amount of money upgrading the Rio Rancho facility.

The company announced today that it would spend $2.5 billion in improvements to the Rio Rancho plant. It is part of $7 billion being spent on plants in New Mexico, Arizona and Oregon.

Gov. Bill Richardson thanked Intel for the investment and for the company’s “continuing its commitment to our state.”

U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Luján, who represents much of Rio Rancho, also commented. “At this time of economic uncertainty, Intel’s investment in high-wage jobs in New Mexico is exciting and encouraging,” said Luján. “I congratulate Intel on their investment, and I look forward to working with them to create high-wage jobs in New Mexico.”

“Today’s announcement renews Intel’s commitment to the Land of Enchantment and ensures the most advanced computer technology in the world will continue to be made in America, and more importantly, right here in New Mexico,” Vice President of Intel Technology Manufacturing Group and Fab 11X Plant Manager Tim Hendry said.

Richardson announced the news locally with Hendry, while Luján was joined by New Mexico Sens. Tom Udall and Jeff Bingaman, Oregon Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, and Oregon Rep. David Wu in Washington, D.C. Wu is the chairman of the Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation where Lujan serves as the vice chair.

The upgrade is expected to create 1,000 to 1,500 contracting jobs at the plant.

Source:  newmexicoindependent.com