Future Of Local Plant Still Undecided

Freightcar America officials said Wednesday discussions are ongoing regarding the plant's possible closure.

John Carroll, chief executive officer, said no decision has been made.

Currently, more work is going to the company's Illinois and Virginia plants because officials said the Johnstown facility is not as cost-effective as the other two.

Wednesday was supposed to be the deadline to inform workers if the plant would close or not.

Union employees - whose contracts end in March 2008 - will meet with executives in two weeks to discuss their future. Workers want an extended contract and a 40-hour work week to ensure their jobs stay in Johnstown. However, company officials said they must cut wages and benefits and hire subcontractors to keep the plant running.

Stay with Channel 6 News for continuing coverage.