CenturyLink's New Facility Breathes Life into Job Growth

Progress is being made at Northeast Louisiana's biggest employer. Thursday, officials with CenturyLink announced they are a step further in expanding their headquarters.

 A new 250,000 square foot facility is coming to CenturyLink.Communications Manager, Annmarie Sartor explains, "We will be building the CenturyLink Technology Center. That facility that will be used for research, development labs, network operations centers, and meeting spaces."

The location will sit on the north side of the company's headquarters. It's being built by Mississippi based, Yates Construction. The technology center's construction will be complete next year and operations won't begin until 2015.

While it may not open for a while, Thursday's announcement brings to life big plans made by the company in 2011, including 800 new jobs.

 "In the next couple of weeks we will see a ground breaking and the announcement becomes real," says Sue Nicholson of the Monroe Chamber of Commerce.

Nicholson says the new facility not only give a moral boost to the area, but also to business and housing growth.

"We'll feel the economic impact in a positive way."

The expansion is showing the company's deepening roots to the area. Hopefully keeping the country's third largest telecommunication company in Monroe.

 "We have a tracked record of tremendous business success being the headquarters are here. Out intention is to remain is to remain here. We hope that by building this facility we'll ease some of the fears," says Annmarie Sartor.

 Part of the 800 new jobs have already been field. Century link says they are looking for all different skill levels to fill the positions.

For information on how to apply with the company click here.