WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Dave Joyce (OH-14) applauded the announcement that Sherwin-Williams plans to construct a new, 500,000-square-foot research and development (R&D) center in Brecksville, Ohio. The planned new R&D center will be located on the site of a former Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) hospital in Brecksville, which is currently being redeveloped as a mixed-used campus. Dave worked alongside Brecksville Mayor Jerry Hruby, Senator Portman and the VA to get the federal government’s approval to transfer the title of the property to the city of Brecksville in 2017. The company also plans to build its new global headquarters in downtown Cleveland.

“This is fantastic news for Northeast Ohio,” said Dave. “After years of relentless efforts, Mayor Hruby’s vision to repurpose the vacant VA hospital and bring new investment to Brecksville has become a reality. This announcement by Sherwin-Williams is proof of just how strong the Northeast Ohio economy is, and I am proud to have worked alongside Mayor Hruby and Senator Portman to make it possible. I look forward to seeing the new jobs and economic growth this new center will bring to Brecksville and expect it to ignite continued investment in the Buckeye State for years to come.”

Preliminary plans call for Sherwin-Williams to invest a minimum of $600 million to build both facilities. Combined, the two facilities are expected to house more than 3,500 employees with room to accommodate significant future growth. Sherwin-Williams estimates it would add at least 400 jobs at these facilities over time, which is an 11% increase to its current local workforce. Many of these jobs will include professional staff, engineers and chemists.

“We are very excited to welcome Sherwin-Williams R&D headquarters to our Brecksville family of businesses,” said Jon Kozesky, the Executive Director of the Brecksville Chamber of Commerce. “Their local retail store has been a member of ours for many years, and we are excited to not only grow our relationship, but also the impact they make on individuals living in and around our wonderful community. Having started themselves as a ‘mom and pop’ operation over a century ago, Sherwin-Williams is a prime example of the power of individuals choosing to buy local, and how those companies in return can truly make a difference in our local community.”

In November, Dave held a Main Street Tour in Brecksville, meeting with local business owners and community leaders to exchange ideas on how to continue building upon local economic growth and enhancing the community. The day began with a tour of the new police station as well as a visit to the fire department, included a meeting with local officials and small business owners, and concluded with a visit to two local small businesses. To learn more about the Main Street Tour, click here. 

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