Press Release
Universal Tank & Fabrication, manufacturer of pressure vessels, tanks, and related fabrications for a very broad customer base extending across North America, is seeking to increase capacity and jobs at the company’s Dubuque-based location. Established in 2007, the company’s products are used in various markets that include water (municipal, waste and industrial segments), air, energy (biofuels), pharmaceutical, and extensive segment for customized work.
Universal Tank & Fabrication is planning and completing due diligence for this project that would invest $4,065,000 and add 15 high-quality jobs in the Dubuque Industrial Center West. The proposed expansion is contingent upon application approvals and assistance from governmental entities, including the City of Dubuque and the Iowa Economic Development Authority. A 28,000 square foot building will be added through this project.
The proposed expansion is specifically designed for finishing projects – specifically, blasting, painting, and assembling. Universal Tank & Fabrication proposes to purchase industry-leading state of the art blast and paint booths that allow for additional throughput by utilizing unique design features. This equipment will both improve product mix efficiencies and throughput and allow the opportunity to coat products from local manufacturers, keeping that work in Iowa. The additional space provides Universal Tank & Fabrication with more lay down space, allowing the company to work on several projects simultaneously along with much needed warehouse space to increase manufacturing capacity.
“Universal Tank & Fabrication embodies the type of mid-sized manufacturer that thrives in Dubuque County,” says Greater Dubuque Development’s Vice President of Business Services, Jason White. “A company that embodies homegrown roots, hardworking values, and a commitment to continual innovation and ingenuity as it reaches and expands into growth markets.”
Dan Davis, President of Universal Tank & Fabrication, emphasized that that the proposed expansion will allow the company to separate blasting/painting and assembling from fabrication, creating greater efficiencies and reducing bottlenecks. “We are thankful for the support of the greater Dubuque community, State of Iowa, contractors, customers, and our loyal employees, who enable our growth. Pressure vessels and tanks will remain our primary focus, but now we can reach and explore new fabrication markets.”
Gronen is the general contractor for the project. The Dubuque City Council will consider a resolution of support for an Iowa Economic Development Authority application to assist the company’s expansion and is expected to consider a Development Agreement with Tax Increment Financing (TIF) support in the near future.
For more information about Greater Dubuque Development's assistance for business expansions, contact Jason White, Vice Presidency of Business Services, at jasonw@greaterdubuque.org or 563-557-9049.