Imagine a rural county suddenly bursting with opportunity—but at what cost to its very foundation? That's the electrifying reality unfolding in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, where a major new factory promises hundreds of high-paying jobs, yet exposes a critical shortfall in housing that could make or break the community's future. But here's where it gets controversial: is this economic boom a blessing in disguise, or a ticking time bomb that prioritizes profits over people's basic needs? Stick around to explore how one company's move is reshaping lives—and whether the local leaders can keep up with the demand.
A multinational firm specializing in automotive components is set to deliver a significant boost to Tuscarawas County. The announcement from the Germany-headquartered Schaeffler Group to establish a production site in Dover means 450 fresh employment opportunities are on the horizon.
DOVER, Ohio — A worldwide leader in auto parts manufacturing is poised to inject tremendous economic vitality into Tuscarawas County.
Schaeffler's choice to erect a production facility in Dover will generate 450 positions and contribute $27 million annually to the county's payroll through wages.
Last Thursday, during a ceremony in Akron, the Ohio Economic Development Association honored Dover with the 2025 Project of the Year accolade (accessible via https://www.tuscedc.com/press-releases/2025/10/16/tuscarawas-county-edc-wins-prestigious-oeda-project-of-the-year-for-schaeffler-e-mobility-expansion-in-dover?sssource=sscampaigns&sscampaignid=68f1540fe88b1e07554efd75&ssemailid=68f1549f2ec0c86dfd861403&sscampaignname=Tuscarawas+County+EDC+Wins+Prestigious+OEDA+Award&sscampaignsentdate=2025-10-16T20%3A25%3A05Z).
Yet, amid the excitement of job growth and economic advancement, this development also underscores a pressing shortage of residential options in the region.
The initial segment of this venture—a 130,000-square-foot factory along N. Wooster Avenue—is progressing steadily, with workers installing structural steel beams as we speak.
"They're currently tackling Phase 1 of a substantial project totaling roughly $200 million," explained Dover Mayor Shane Gunnoe.
Once operational, the facility will produce beam axles and drivetrain components essential for hybrid and electric vehicles. For clarity, beam axles are key parts that support a car's wheels and handle weight distribution, while drivetrains transmit power from the engine to the wheels—think of them as the backbone of modern, eco-friendly transportation. Schaeffler's addition will create numerous lucrative roles in the area.
"You might find some office-based positions earning over $125,000," Mayor Gunnoe noted. "And many factory jobs could start at $70,000 or higher, providing a solid path to financial stability for families."
Tuscarawas County Commissioner Kristin Zemis described it as "a major victory" for Dover, which outcompeted other Ohio and Indiana locations.
"Choosing Tuscarawas County feels like an underdog triumph. We're not flashy or urban—we're the real deal, rooted in community," Zemis shared.
With such an influx of employment opportunities flooding the county, the call for expanded housing has escalated to critical levels.
"It's absolutely urgent—our housing supply needs immediate expansion," Zemis emphasized.
A recent analysis from the Tuscarawas Economic Development Corporation reveals that roughly 15,000 individuals travel into Tuscarawas County daily for employment. Officials aim to encourage more of these commuters to relocate locally, necessitating a variety of housing styles such as standalone houses, townhouses, and apartment complexes.
Zemis pointed out that the most recent apartment developments in Dover and New Philadelphia date back to the 1980s, highlighting how outdated the current stock is.
Mayor Gunnoe reported that between 2008 and 2020, the county experienced a mere net increase of 35 residences.
"We're aware of the necessity and committed to addressing it through persistent effort," Gunnoe stated.
Progress is underway; around 90 residences are currently being built in various Dover neighborhoods.
Still, the housing report projects a requirement for over 1,000 additional homes in the Dover and New Philadelphia area within the next five years, plus another 2,000 across the rest of the county during the same period.
Simultaneously, efforts are underway to revitalize a former industrial zone called the Joy Manufacturing site on South Broadway Street in New Philadelphia.
Zemis mentioned multiple development ideas, with a preference for compact, dense designs featuring townhouses and duplexes to maximize space.
"I anticipate we'll have clarity on the developer and final plans within less than a year," Zemis added.
Mayor Gunnoe identified obstacles like securing suitable land and addressing infrastructure limitations as challenges to increasing housing supply.
Nonetheless, with Schaeffler gearing up for operations in Dover by late next year, local officials are prioritizing swift action.
"The objective is to ensure as many employees at this plant as possible can reside nearby, fostering stronger community ties," Gunnoe concluded.
And this is the part most people miss: while the jobs are undeniably exciting, critics might argue that rapid industrialization like this often leads to gentrification or inflated living costs, potentially pushing out long-time residents. Is the trade-off worth it, or should communities like Tuscarawas County demand more from companies to fund affordable housing upfront? What do you think—does economic growth justify these growing pains, or is there a better way to balance opportunity and accessibility?
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