Construction of the $122 million facility, to be located in the area's mixed-use Waterfront development, is scheduled to begin almost immediately and continue in phases over five years. A 180,000-sf facility is scheduled to be completed next year and be operational by spring 2003. Initial employment will be roughly 150 and is expected to reach up to 500 when the project is completed in 2006.

Pittsburgh Regional Alliance president and CEO Ronnie Bryant says that as head of Southwestern PA's economic development organization he worked closely with Siemens Westinghouse to showcase the area's assets. "Siemens Westinghouse heard our message. Today's new Pittsburgh region offers significant advantages that must be considered when business expansion or relocation decisions are evaluated."

Randy Zwirn, president and CEO of Orlando-based Siemens Westinghouse says the final three choices are all "very good places in which to do business," but that "after considering all the factors, we decided that the Pittsburgh area is best for the long-term future success of our business."