2025 Midwest Best Projects
Best Manufacturing: Ford Ohio Assembly Plant Expansion
Ford Ohio Assembly Plant Expansion
Sheffield, Ohio
BEST PROJECT
Submitted by Rudolph Libbe Group
Owner: Ford Motor Co.
Lead Design Firm, Structural Engineer, Civil Engineer, MEP Engineer: SSOE Group
General Contractor: Rudolph Libbe Group
Ford Motor Co.’s 2.66-million-sq-ft expansion of its Ohio Assembly Plant spans 246 acres across three municipalities, supporting production of a new commercial vehicle and creating 1,800 jobs.
The $1.75-billion design-build project consolidated the body and final assembly shops to improve logistics.
Photo by Rudolph Libbe Group
Construction took place without disrupting 24/7 operations, requiring precise scheduling, off-hour work and innovative solutions—from helicopter lifts and prefabricated modules to rerouting roads and reconfiguring power systems amid late equipment deliveries.
Photo by Rudolph Libbe Group
Over 2,100 workers logged 1.7 million hours, with safety performance nearly 50% better than industry averages thanks to a proactive “Find It. Fix It.” program and mental health initiatives.
Completed on time and within budget, the project strengthens Ohio’s economy and Ford’s global manufacturing capabilities.
