The Laborers’ International Union of North America, known as LiUNA, plans to build an Urban Training Center at Plymouth Industrial Park in Wellston.
The proposed training center would be located at 6440 Page Ave. The Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority board approved the proposal Nov. 19.
“Workforce development is essential to the growth of our region and builds pathways to successful careers,” said St. Louis County Executive Sam Page.
“Our new 2050 Comprehensive Plan highlights the need for upskilling and training to bridge the gap between available workers and employer needs. I look forward to the training center helping us meet these goals.”
The project is being developed in partnership with the Associated General Contractors, SITE Improvement Association and the Mason Contractors Association. Supporters say the facility will strengthen the region’s construction workforce.
“With this project, LCRA believes this new development will help the region’s job market and economy,” said Jami Dolby, chair of the Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority.
“We feel like this project in Wellston is the perfect fit to not only find a purpose for land that needed to be redeveloped but also train hundreds of individuals looking for a new career or skillset. We look forward to working with LiUNA on this new facility.”
The 40,000-square-foot Urban Training Center site is located near the Wellston MetroLink stop and multiple bus routes. LiUNA said it expects to train up to 500 apprentices, journeymen and journeywomen each year.
“This Urban Training Center represents the future of St. Louis’ workforce,” said Brandon Flinn, business manager for the LiUNA Missouri and Kansas Laborers District Council.
“By placing this facility where people live, work and ride transit, we’re eliminating barriers and opening the door to real careers with guaranteed wages, healthcare and retirement. This project will be built by our local workforce, and in turn, it will help train the next generation of skilled construction craft laborers who will continue building our region.”