By Terry Oparka
C & G Staff Writer

STERLING HEIGHTS — Investment continues in Sterling Heights manufacturing facilities after the Chrysler Group said it would pour $300 million into the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant paint shop.

As part of a $1.78 billion investment in southeast Michigan facilities, which includes $50 million at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant and Warren Stamping Plant, the carmaker plans to retool the paint process in the Sterling plant in all key areas.

This investment follows Ford Motor Company’s $104 million investment at the Transmission Plant at Van Dyke and 18 Mile announced in December of last year.

“We have a vision to grow our business and transform the Chrysler Group into a stronger company that will be competitive in the long run,” said Chrysler Group President and CEO Tom LaSorda in a prepared statement.

He explained that most paint shops last about 25 years.

“This paint shop is 25 years old and in need of an upgrade. It’s a great plant, and we want to keep it that way.”

The Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, located on Van Dyke, north of Metropolitan Parkway, manufactures the Sebring sedan and convertible and the new Avenger.

The new paint shop, which will have the capacity to paint any front-wheel drive vehicle, is expected to be completed by 2009.

In March of 2005, the automaker invested $506 million in the Sterling Heights facility.

“The investment here in Sterling Heights will retain jobs, preserve our longstanding partnership with one of our valued corporate citizens and is another example of Sterling Heights’ very strong business climate,” said Sterling Heights Mayor Richard Notte.

You can reach Terry Oparka at toparka@candgnews.com or at (586) 498-1054.