SPRINGDALE, Ark. – Tyson Foods Inc. officials have confirmed that it will invest $9 million in equipment and add 60 jobs to its poultry tray-packing facility in Monroe, N.C. With the additional jobs, the plant will employ more than 1,500 workers.

Monroe City Council members have approved an economic development incentive grant not to exceed $171,120 to encourage this investment in Monroe, according to a release from Monroe Economic Development.

“The improvements will not add production capacity, but will involve the use of new equipment and processes designed to enhance the efficiency and long-term competitiveness of our Monroe processing operation,” Doug Ramsey, vice president of operations at the plant, said in a report published by the Charlotte Observer.

Tyson’s Monroe poultry facility generates an estimated $78 million annually including payroll, property taxes, utilities and payments to contract poultry growers.

The company hasn’t disclosed a timetable for the expansion.