For a little less than 12 months in 2022, there were some questions about Wells Enterprises and its commitment to Dunkirk. In July of that year, the company began reducing its workforce before it was acquired by the Ferraro Group.

Fast-forward two years later and those worries have vanished. In an announcement that included state Gov. Kathy Hochul, Wells made the announcement it was moving forward with a $425 million expansion.

“I’ve never been more excited about our future in Dunkirk,” said Liam Killeen, CEO of Wells. “Our journey is just beginning.”

Besides major improvements to the plant, an increase in the workforce also will take place. Plenty of local support buoyed the effort, including that of the Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency and former Dunkirk Mayor Wilfred Rosas.

Despite some recent troubles in the north county, Wells has added some stability to the economy with its future plans. That’s sweet news for the region.