Source says GM-Lordstown will stay open

Analysts think GM-Lordstown will stay open

General Motors has committed to keeping its Lordstown complex open throughout a proposed four-year labor contract, said a source close to the negotiations.

Details on what vehicle would be built at the plant or what investments would be made haven’t been announced, said the GM employee, who didn’t want to be named.

Industry reports have indicated that Lordstown is one of three GM plants most in danger of closing. Production of the Chevrolet Cobalt is scheduled only through June 2009.

Greg Gardner, an analyst with Harbour & Associates in Troy, Mich., said he’ll be watching to see how much commitment GM makes to Lordstown.

“Committing to Lordstown for four years is good, but a commitment for the next generation of the Cobalt sounds better,” he said.

For the complete story, see Thursday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com.