R. E. WARNER

Background & Strategic Relocation

• After more than seven decades operating and growing across Ohio (and beyond), R.E. Warner experienced rapid recent growth — reportedly tripling in size since 2020 due to expanding demand across its various markets (utilities, manufacturing, etc.)

• To accommodate that growth, the firm chose to relocate its headquarters to a larger, modern office complex in North Olmsted’s Great Northern Corporate Center. The move improves space capacity, supports a growing workforce, and positions the firm closer to key transportation infrastructure (notably the nearby airport), which aids their frequent travel to national clients and supports remote‑work flexibility.

• The physical readiness and quality of the new building — rather than needing to build from scratch — significantly streamlined the relocation. This allowed R.E. Warner to avoid major construction delays or infrastructure build‑out, letting them focus on outfitting a functional, modern workspace for immediate operations and future growth. The recently unveiled headquarters features contemporary amenities: collaborative meeting areas, ample natural light, and a cafeteria — all elements that enhance company culture and productivity.

Why North Olmsted Made Sense

• The firm explicitly recognized that Ohio — and more specifically Cuyahoga County — offers a strong base of talent and sector‑diverse clients across manufacturing, utilities, commercial, and industrial markets. Remaining in Northeast Ohio (rather than relocating out of state) was part of their commitment to build on local strengths.

• Proximity to the airport and good regional transport made North Olmsted logistically attractive, especially given the firm’s national footprint and need to host or travel to clients across the country.

• Local and state economic‑development partners — including JobsOhio, Team NEO, and the Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) — supported the expansion by approving tax‑credit assistance. This collaboration underscores how municipal and regional economic leadership helped make the move feasible and attractive.

Impact: Growth, Jobs, and Local Significance

• Job creation and retention: As part of the expansion tied to the move, R.E. Warner committed to creating 88 new positions along with retaining 94 existing ones — a major boost to local employment for engineers, architects, designers, and support staff.

• Capital investment in the region: The relocation and expansion included a nearly $4 million capital investment to support the new headquarters and growth plan.

• Enhanced regional reputation: By investing in modern, thoughtfully designed offices in North Olmsted, R.E. Warner signals confidence in the region as a hub for engineering, industrial services, and skilled labor — potentially encouraging similar firms to consider locating or expanding nearby.

• Infrastructure for future projects: With their core business in engineering, architecture, surveying and infrastructure services, R.E. Warner’s presence supports broader regional development — the firm helps design the very facilities, utilities, and industrial sites that fuel economic growth.

Why Highlight R.E. Warner in Economic Development Materials

• Their move demonstrates how established companies — not just startups — contribute to community growth by investing locally, expanding footprints, and creating stable jobs.

• The project showcases effective public‑private collaboration: a regional firm partnering with state/county economic‑development agencies to support growth, incentivize investment, and retain skilled work in Northeast Ohio.

• R.E. Warner’s core function (engineering, design, infrastructure) aligns with long‑term economic resilience — their services help sustain and modernize industrial, manufacturing, and commercial facilities, which benefits the broader region’s competitiveness and stability.