Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, opened its state-of-the-art Plant 4 manufacturing facility in Hornell, New York, on June 2, 2025, with a $75 million investment. The 135,000-square-foot facility, one of the few in the U.S. capable of producing stainless steel car body shells, will manufacture 200 multi-level commuter railcars for Metra’s Chicago network, featuring modern design, improved passenger flow, and enhanced ride comfort. The plant, located in Steuben County, created 200 jobs, boosting New York’s 80,000-strong manufacturing workforce, and is supported by federal and state incentives, including Buy America compliance. Targeting a $5 billion U.S. rail market, Plant 4 employs advanced automation and sustainable practices, aligning with tariff-driven reshoring under President Trump’s 25% steel tariffs. CEO Cécile Texier noted the facility’s role in “redefining rail manufacturing” and strengthening domestic supply chains for sustainable mobility.

For the precision machining industry, Alstom’s Plant 4 highlights the critical role of surface texture in railcar manufacturing. Components like structural frames and door assemblies require CNC milling to achieve precise surface texture, measured in microinches (Ra 16–32 µin), ensuring durability and corrosion resistance in stainless steel. 5-axis milling machines, optimized for surface texture through controlled tool paths, maintain tolerances within ±0.001 inches in automated production with real-time quality control. The facility’s scale drives demand for local machine shops to supply precision tooling, adopting Industry 4.0 technologies like AI-driven milling and additive manufacturing. As part of a $50 billion precision manufacturing market, this project creates opportunities for suppliers in New York, where manufacturing jobs grew 2% since 2022, strengthening rail supply chains.

Source:

Alstom Press Release, June 2, 2025

Source:

Alstom

Social Media Buzz (powered by X):

X is buzzing about Alstom’s Plant 4 opening, with posts on June 12, 2025, calling it a “game-changer” for Hornell. Users praised the 200 jobs and Metra railcar production, with one noting “New York’s rail hub shines,” while another tied it to “reshoring rail tech.” The excitement reflects optimism for economic growth and sustainable transit.

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