JOHNSTOWN, Ohio — President Joe Biden attended the grand opening of the Intel plant in Licking County on Friday afternoon.
Despite the pomp and circumstances of the event, many Licking County residents have mixed feelings about this new plant, including Becky and Michael Rak. Becky Rak said change was inevitable for this community.
What do you want to know
- President Joe Biden visited Intel’s groundbreaking new factory in Licking County
- Licking County residents are conflicted over what they think of the plant’s entry into their community
- Plant construction has begun and is expected to be completed by 2025
“I think progress is inevitable,” she said.
Another person who is excited about the change is an antique store employee, Howard Lyons. He worked for Antiques on Main in Johnstown for three years and he expressed how much he looks forward to the new factory.
“I’ve seen these changes where you move to an area where there’s nothing, the whole industry comes in and I think that’s a good thing because there are jobs coming in and more people coming in, and I think that’s good,” he said.
Michael Rak said he understands why not everyone in the community agrees with these changes.
“I understand that they don’t want to lose the small town aspect of life here. Leaving your doors unlocked. And that can bring more urban culture in that direction, so I can see that as a concern,” he said.
However, he thinks it will be positive for the community and move it in the right direction.
“I think it’s a fabulous opportunity not only for the county but also for the state and it’s going to bring a lot of jobs and awareness here,” he said.
Construction of Intel’s $20 billion chip factory has already begun and is expected to be completed by 2025.