SALEM - The Ohio Air Quality Development Authority (OAQDA) has approved financing to help Quaker City Concrete Products in Salem make critical upgrades.

Thanks to $110,000 in financing, including $20,000 from a grant, Quaker City Concrete will install a new dust control system designed to meet Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and federal clean air standards.

This investment ensures that the company can remain compliant and protect the health of its 31 employees.

Quaker City Concrete co-owner Tim Ridzon is quoted in a press release saying investments like this are crucial for small businesses like his.

"OAQDA's support allows us to do the right thing for our employees and our community, protecting air quality while also protecting jobs," Ridzon said.

The new equipment will reduce harmful dust emissions, improve workplace safety and provide the company with greater stability to continue contributing to the local economy.

The project was approved by the OAQDA through the Small Business Assistance Program.