On a momentous day for economic development in Dearborn County, Greendale Mayor Vince Karsteter, city officials, and representatives from BWF Envirotec gathered at the future site of the company’s new North American headquarters to break ground on a transformational $9 million manufacturing facility. The ceremonial groundbreaking officially marks the beginning of construction on a 65,000-square-foot facility that will bring 60 quality jobs to the community and establish Greendale as home to a major international company’s North American operations.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held on the Minger Drive property in Greendale, brought together key stakeholders including Greendale Redevelopment Commission leadership, state economic development officials, and representatives from CrossPoint – Commercial Real Estate Services and One Dearborn Economic Development, the organizations instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.
A Milestone for Community and Company “Today we are witnessing the future being built right here in Greendale,” said Mayor Vince Karsteter at the groundbreaking ceremony. “This moment represents more than just construction, it represents our city’s commitment to economic growth, quality jobs, and opportunity for our residents. BWF Envirotec’s decision to invest $9 million in our community is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together.”
The facility on Minger Drive will be completed by February 2027 and will serve as BWF Envirotec’s North American headquarters, housing both manufacturing and administrative operations. The company anticipates creating 60 jobs in the first year, with average annual wages and benefits of approximately $75,000 per employee. The project is expected to expand further, with workforce projections potentially reaching well over 100 employees within the next two decades.
“We are thrilled to officially break ground on this important facility,” said Philipp von Waldenfels, managing partner of BWF Group. “Greendale’s business-friendly environment, strategic location, and skilled workforce made this the ideal location for our North American expansion. Today’s groundbreaking is a promise of our long-term commitment to this region.”
Construction and Economic Impact
The groundbreaking ceremony highlighted the substantial economic benefits the project will deliver to Greendale and Dearborn County. During construction, the project is expected to generate activity in the local building trades and supply chain. Once operational, BWF Envirotec’s facility will contribute significantly to the local tax base while creating high-wage manufacturing jobs.
John Rothermel, President of BWF America, acknowledged the partnerships that made the groundbreaking possible:
“We are profoundly grateful to the City of Greendale, the Greendale Redevelopment Commission, and our partners at One Dearborn, and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. Their dedication and collaborative approach made this project a reality. Today’s groundbreaking represents the beginning of an exciting new chapter for BWF in North America, and we couldn’t be more pleased to be building it here in Greendale.”
THIS ALL STARTED WHEN PATRICK CALLED ME
The groundbreaking was also an opportunity to recognize the collaborative effort that brought BWF Envirotec to Greendale. The Greendale Redevelopment Commission, worked in conjunction with One Dearborn led by Mike Perleberg, who worked tirelessly to structure an economic development incentive package tailored to the company’s needs while maximizing benefits for the community.
“There is great German heritage in our city and region, which makes BWF’s location decision that much more exciting,” said Perleberg at the ceremony. “Today we are not just breaking ground on a building we’re laying the foundation for strengthened economic ties between Greendale and Germany. We look forward to the many years of growth and partnership ahead.”
Today’s groundbreaking is the product of meaningful collaboration, persistence, and creative problem-solving. We’re proud to have helped bring this transformational investment to Greendale and look forward to its lasting impact on the region for years to come.
PATRICK REYNOLDS, CCIM
CEO