The LaGrange County Economic Development Corp. (EDC) announced the sale of 64.4 acres in Howe, Ind., to Heartland Recreational Vehicles, a subsidiary of Thor Industries Inc.

According to a press release, Heartland RV broke ground Jan. 1 on a 52,200-square-foot state-of-the-art facility that will house a service center, warehouse and executive office for its Cruiser RV and DRV Luxury Suites subsidiaries. The project will create at least 15 new jobs.

Heartland acquired the sister companies in early January, 2015, to build its presence in the lightweight trailer and high-end fifth-wheel markets. Construction is expected to be completed in late spring and the new facility will be fully-staffed and operational by June 1.

Larry Miller, president of the LaGrange County Board of Commissioners and a member of the LaGrange County EDC Board, noted, “It’s impossible to deny the economic development momentum building in LaGrange County, and this project is a strong indication of that. Heartland RV’s purchase of the remaining land at Fawn River Crossing Industrial Park is particularly meaningful as it took many years of planning, land preparation, marketing and significant public investment to make it possible.”

“The commitment by Heartland RV and Thor Industries to the LaGrange County community demonstrates tremendous progress. The new jobs and capital investment are alone a reason to celebrate,” added Ryne Krock, president and CEO of the LaGrange County EDC. “We are encouraged by this project and potentially additional development by Heartland RV in LaGrange County in the future.”

Heartland RV’s plans received approval from the LaGrange County Plan Commission at a special meeting held on Dec. 18, 2015.