Corning Optical Announces Major New $267 Million Investment In Charlotte Region

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Corning Optical has just announced plans for a major expansion in the Charlotte area. They plan on investing up to $267.9 million and adding 132 new jobs. New positions will pay an average of more than $65,000 per year.

The company reached an agreement with the City of Hickory and Catawba County to acquire a 32.92-acre site in Trivium Corporate Center—valued at more than $3.1 million—at no cost.

“The City of Hickory is proud to celebrate Corning’s continued investment in our community with this latest expansion at Trivium Corporate Center,” said Hickory Mayor Hank Guess in a press release. “Corning’s ongoing commitment not only strengthens our local economy but also reinforces Hickory’s position as a hub for advanced manufacturing and innovation. This expansion brings new opportunities for our residents and contributes to the long-term vitality of the entire region. We are grateful for Corning’s partnership and their confidence in Hickory’s future.”

Corning Optical will also receive incentive grants tied to future tax receipts, totaling up to $2.68 million from the county and $3.1 million from the city.

A division of New York-based Corning Incorporated, the company manufactures glass components for fiber-optic systems and already operates facilities in Newton, Winston-Salem, and Concord. This marks Corning Optical’s second major expansion in Catawba County since 2021, when it invested $150 million and created 200 jobs.