Publication: Illinois Business Journal, April 2017

Continental Tire Plant in Mount Vernon is investing more than $20 million in a new expansion project that is scheduled for completion in July. Construction began in November 2016.

The expansion is part of the company’s goal to increase its production capacity.

Poettker Construction in Breese is the general contractor for the project and PCI Skanska in Evansville, Ind., is the design firm.

The 180,000-square-foot expansion at the plant’s production facility will help the company meet increased production demand for its passenger and light truck tires. Once construction is complete, Continental Tire can begin installing production equipment.

Project manager Walker Gusewelle said the site and utility work has been completed, in addition to the concrete foundations and structural steel building erection. Remaining work includes insulated metal wall panel installation, roofing and interior finishes.

In addition to managing the overall construction, Poettker Construction is self-performing the concrete footing and foundation work along with installation of the insulated metal wall panels, selective demolition and rough carpentry.

Poettker Construction has partnered with Continental Tire on more than 26 projects since 2007. “We have a good working relationship with them,” said Gusewelle.

Founded in 1980, Poettker Construction is a second-generation family-owned and veteran-owned business that specializes in construction management, design/build and general contracting services with an emphasis to exceed the client’s expectations.

The company said it prides itself on building long-lasting relationships with clients, business partners and the communities in which it works.