Tuscaloosa Mayor: Planning Begins Now to Help Workers Losing Jobs at BFGoodrich

Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox pledged the city's support for affected workers Thursday following news that Michelin North America will close the city's 80-year-old BFGoodrich plant by late 2028.

"This morning, I learned about Michelin North America's decision to close the Tuscaloosa County BF Goodrich plant," Maddox said. "My heart is heavy for the thousands of families who will be affected by this decision."

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As the Thread reported, the plant will shut down as Michelin consolidates its operations to another plant in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Around 1,200 employees in Tuscaloosa will lose their jobs here.

Maddox said the city will work alongside state and local partners to support workers and stabilize the local economy as more details emerge.

"While the full impact is not yet known, I want to assure our community that the City of Tuscaloosa will stand side-by-side with our state and local partners to support affected workers, stabilize our economy, and determine the best path forward," he said.

The mayor noted the plant's decades-long role in the community.

"For 80 years, BF Goodrich has stood as an anchor for Tuscaloosa County, strengthening our economy, shaping our workforce, and becoming a meaningful part of Tuscaloosa County's identity," Maddox said. "For decades, it has been one of the County's largest and most enduring employers."

Maddox said city officials will meet Thursday afternoon with representatives from the State of Alabama, Tuscaloosa County, the Economic Development Authority and the Chamber of Commerce at City Hall to begin coordinating a response.

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