German firm plans $320 million plant, 300 jobs in Des Plaines

Des Plaines residents voiced concerns Tuesday about a German pharmaceutical company's plans to build a $320 million manufacturing complex near their neighborhood on the west side of the city.

State officials this week announced they had reached an economic development agreement with Vetter to construct a production facility, automated warehouse, and a multiuse building with offices and lab space on the 17-acre former Salvation Army site at Mount Prospect and Algonquin roads.

The plant will bring more than 300 jobs to the city and fill a large vacant property at a highly visible intersection, state and city officials say.

"We believe this project is a win-win situation for the residents of Des Plaines and our company," said Oliver Albrecht, managing director of Vetter. However, city residents living near the property filled city council chambers Tuesday to ask questions and express reservations about the plan, which still needs Des Plaines aldermen's approval. One of their chief concerns was how the facility would impact traffic in the area.

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