Con-way Freight trucks to Robinson

ROBINSON – Con-way Freight will open a new $3.7 million service center in Robinson Industrial Park. The facility will feature a driving school for those wanting to work for the Michigan-based freight hauler.

The new center, built on a nearly 19,000-sf foundation, will have an above-ground fuel island and a shop for minor repairs.

Con-way will relocate from a facility it now leases at 7300 Bagby Ave. to a 12-acre site inside the park located at Sun Valley Blvd. and the I-35 frontage road. John Etheredge, who oversees local Con-way operations, said he expects the 48-door complex to open by March 2014.

New hires who already have commercial licenses can receive training to drive big rigs with more than one trailer and to haul hazardous materials, making $12.44 an hour while taking lessons part of their workdays for eight to 12 weeks.

Etheredge said drivers at Con-way start at $17.78 an hour and can reach $22 an hour within four years, and receive benefits and bonuses.

Con-way is joining an industrial park that has become a mecca for freight haulers and distribution centers. FedEx, the package delivery company, broke ground in June on a 42,000-sf, multimillion-dollar facility that will open in January.