Tyson Foods, Inc., Springdale, Ark., announced plans to make major improvements to its Vienna, Ga., poultry plant as part of an ongoing plan to maximize efficiencies and meet growing demand. The capital improvement project, valued at more than $110 million, will bolster the future of the operation and create more than 500 jobs in Vienna.

The Vienna plant has been producing chicken for foodservice customers, including restaurant chains, but will convert to supply fresh tray pack chicken to meet the needs of regional retail customers. Work began at the location in mid-January, and is scheduled to be completed in mid-2015. 

The project will upgrade parts of the plant and add about 100,000 square feet, including new equipment and production lines, as well as processes and technology designed to benefit food safety, quality and workplace safety. 

“The existing infrastructure, location and the availability of workers make the Vienna plant ideal for this expansion project,” says Noel White, president of poultry. “This project will improve the plant’s product mix and make it even more cost competitive.” 

Tyson Foods purchased the Vienna plant in 1995.