Success Stories

Griffin Pipe, a longtime Council Bluffs industry, produces ductile iron pressure pipe and fittings for fresh water and wastewater transmission. Because of the success of a new line, Griffin Pipe needed to expand its current production of large diameter pipe. The proposed $30 million project would add more than 60,000 square feet of production space and additional land for storage.

Unfortunately, Griffin Pipe was landlocked. However, a 20-acre parcel owned by Union Pacific was adjacent to Griffin Pipe and could be acquired for the project. After further investigation, it was discovered the site was severely contaminated with lead. The Pottawattamie County Development Corporation (a Growth Alliance partner) stepped in and purchased the land, remediated the clean up of the site and sold it back to Griffin Pipe, allowing the expansion to occur.

In addition, Griffin Pipe qualified for the High Quality Jobs Program, receiving tax abatement, an investment tax credit and sales tax refund. The expansion is now in full operation and employs an additional 50 people.