No Layoffs at Tuscaloosa’s BFGoodrich Until 2027, Groups Moving to Support 1,200 Workers

Local and state leaders offered new details Friday on the timeline for BFGoodrich's planned shutdown in Tuscaloosa, along with a coordinated plan to support affected workers.

As the Thread reported yesterday, the 80-year-old plant will wind down next year and permanently close in 2028, impacting the jobs of more than 1,200 employees - the plant is among the Top 10 largest employers in Tuscaloosa County.

According to a joint statement from the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, the Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority and West Alabama Works, Michelin has committed that there will be no layoffs at the Tuscaloosa facility during 2026. Workforce impacts are expected to begin in phases starting in the first half of 2027.

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The organizations said local and state stakeholders have been in discussions with BFGoodrich and Michelin leadership since learning of the company's plans, working to understand the transition timeline and identify ways to support employees. City and county elected officials, the Tuscaloosa delegations in Montgomery and DC, educational institutions, economic development partners, and state agencies are coordinating the response.

"West Alabama has repeatedly demonstrated its resilience, strength, and ability to adapt to change. By working together—industry leaders, elected officials, educational partners, workforce organizations, and community stakeholders—we are confident that we can support affected employees while continuing to build a strong and diverse economy for the future," the statement said. "This transition will require collaboration, communication, and commitment, and those efforts are already underway. The people of West Alabama have always met challenges with determination, and we will approach this opportunity to support BFGoodrich employees with that same spirit."

The statement said the shared goal is to connect affected workers with career transition services, skills training, educational pathways, and employment opportunities across West Alabama and the broader region. With patience and time, affected employees could meet the ongoing demand for skilled workers in manufacturing, automotive, logistics, healthcare, construction, technology, and other sectors in the Tuscaloosa area.

Planning efforts are already underway to have resources and support systems in place before any employee is affected, the Chamber said, and organizers said they are committed to sharing updates with employees, community leaders, and the public as more information becomes available.

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