The Boeing Company has committed to a long-term investment exceeding $50 million through a lease extension with the Heath-Newark-Licking County Port Authority. This decision was announced last week.
"This $50 million investment is a commitment to the long-term future of Boeing’s unique capabilities in Licking County and Ohio," said Rick Platt, President and CEO of the Port Authority, according to a news release. "It’s a commitment that resonates with the community, the current workforce, and the future workforce. This facility is a national asset, and this commitment strengthens its capabilities for the national defense which have spanned more than six decades here in Licking County."
According to the news release, Boeing leases cleanroom and advanced manufacturing space at the Central Ohio Aerospace and Technology Center in Heath. The company utilizes this facility for maintenance, repair, and overhaul activities related to aerospace and defense guidance and navigation systems. Additionally, Boeing manufactures radar antennae at this location. Mike Murasky, Boeing's director of Strategic Deterrent Systems, said that the partnership's shared history and investment underscore Boeing's dedication to maintaining Heath as an active center for aerospace and defense manufacturing.
The Port Authority has announced its own commitment of nearly $3 million to enhance strategic capabilities at the facility by installing a state-of-the-art sensitive compartmented information facility (SCIF). The SCIF is expected to enable Boeing to attract next-generation work to Heath. This local commitment is funded by Port Authority capital funds.
Boeing began its operations at the former Newark Air Force Base facilities in 1996 with its first lease agreement with the Port Authority. The current lease extends through September 30, 2038, with an option for further extension until 2043.
Furthermore, according to the release, Boeing reported engaging over 300 supplier businesses in Ohio with expenditures surpassing $5.8 billion in 2024. The Port Authority owns and manages the Central Ohio Aerospace and Technology Center in Heath, making it Ohio's largest self-sustaining port authority.
