Ford Motor Company confirmed Thursday their decision to invest $1 billion in two Chicago-area factories; creating hundreds of new jobs throughout the region.

“Ford Motor Company announced Thursday it will invest $1 billion at two Chicago factories to handle production of three new SUVs,” writes the Hill “The expansion will result in 500 new full-time jobs, bringing total employment at the factories on the city’s southeast side to 5,800.”

“The transformation at the plant, which will begin in March, will expand capacity for the production of the all-new Ford Explorer – including the Explorer ST and Explorer Hybrid – the all-new Police Interceptor Utility and the all-new Lincoln Aviator,” said a press release from the auto manufacturer.

“Ford’s announcement of 500 additional jobs and over $1 billion in plant investments is a testament to the quality and hard work of UAW Ford members,” said Rory Gamble, Vice President of the UAW Ford Department.

Read the full report here.