Locomotive manufacturing company MotivePower will close its Boise, Idaho, office and consolidate its operations in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Its parent company Wabtec made the announcement Wednesday.

MotivePower designs and manufactures diesel-electric locomotives. Since 1972, more than 2,800 locomotives have been delivered from the 300,000-square-foot facility.

Wabtec said the move will "better position Wabtec for success" in a statement:

“Today, Wabtec announced the intent to consolidate manufacturing operations at the MotivePower plant in Boise into the Company’s site in Erie, PA. Decisions like this are never easy but will help simplify and optimize the company’s manufacturing footprint in today’s cyclical environment, as well as better position Wabtec for success. The company remains fully committed to all customer commitments and providing impacted employees with resources and benefits to manage the transition.”

Wabtec has not said how many jobs will be lost in Boise or how many jobs will be created in Erie.

UE 506 president Scott Slawson, who represents 1,700 workers at the Wabtec plant in Lawrence Park, called the decision as bittersweet.

Slawson said while he hates to see any workers lose their jobs, it also shows Wabtec's dedication to Erie.

"Obviously, we've been on the receiving end of that numerous times, so we understand the impact that has on the workers, their families, and the community," said Slawson. "Our hearts go out to them."

"On the other side of it, it's nice to see Wabtec is committed to NWPA and Erie in particular," said Slawson. "Hopefully, this is the start of a good relationship and growth in this location."

Wabtec and GE Transportation merged Feb. 25, 2019, giving the GE plant in Lawrence Park a new owner for the first time in its history.