(ELKIN) -- A leading auto glass manufacturer has chosen Surry County over 87 other locations as the site for its new plant.  Pittsburgh Glass Works plans to invest more than $85 million in the facility at the former Colonial Candle plant in Elkin. The company expects to create more than 260 jobs over four years.

James Wiggins, Chairman and CEO of Pittsburgh Glass Works, said they already have a presence in North Carolina. "We know it as a state where there's wonderful people, a strong work ethic.  We know it as a state where there's a supportive state government, supportive local government and just a wonderful place to do business," said Wiggins.

Pittsburgh Glass Works makes windshields and other products for the automotive industry. The Pennsylvania company has more than 4,000 workers worldwide and has distribution operations in Mecklenburg and Wake counties.

Wiggins said that the new factory in Elkin will be state of the art with high tech equipment manufacturing high tech products. Once fully operational the plant will be able to produce 1.2 million car windshields.

The company is eligible for a $500,000 state grant if investment and job creation targets are met.

(WSJS)