FORT PAYNE, Alabama — A $21 million manufacturing expansion is bringing more than 100 new jobs to Fort Payne as Phos Window significantly scales its vinyl window production operation in DeKalb County.
The Fort Payne City Council approved incentives Tuesday to support the project, which will more than triple the size of the company’s facility near the I-59 corridor. Once complete, the operation will span nearly 140,000 square feet and employ between 150 and 200 workers—a substantial workforce investment that reflects confidence in the region’s manufacturing capabilities.
Company leaders cited DeKalb County’s skilled labor pool and strategic tri-state location as decisive factors in choosing to expand locally rather than relocate production capacity.
“This investment reinforces DeKalb County as the proven place for business,” said Brett Johnson, Executive Director of the DeKalb County Economic Development Authority. “Companies like Phos Window continue to choose this region for our tri-state location, skilled workforce, and transportation advantages.”
The expansion strengthens Northeast Alabama’s emerging construction manufacturing cluster. The region already houses producers of structural steel, manufactured block and corrugated pipe. The addition of vinyl window production further diversifies the industrial base and creates opportunities for workforce specialization in building products manufacturing.
“Phos Window’s decision to expand in Fort Payne demonstrates the competitive advantages Alabama’s manufacturing workforce brings to the table,” said Ellen McNair, Alabama Secretary of Commerce. “Our workers possess the technical expertise and adaptability that modern manufacturers require. This project reflects both the innovative capacity of Alabama’s construction products sector and the skilled workforce that makes these advanced manufacturing operations possible.”
“We appreciate Phos Window’s continued confidence and look forward to supporting their long-term growth,” said Fort Payne Mayor Brian Baine.
Construction is expected to begin soon, with hiring to follow in phases as production capacity comes online.
The project positions Fort Payne to capture a larger share of the regional building products market while providing career opportunities for skilled manufacturing workers across Northeast Alabama.
