Southern Film Extruders is considering a plant expansion at 2327 W. English Road. The company makes a form of plastic used to package bread loaves, newspapers and other products.

The project requires a new rail access track for supply distribution, said Steve Smotherman, vice president of the city's Economic Development Corp. Because the new facility will be farther down the rail line from the existing plant, it will require a new switch track.

Smotherman said the process is as costly and expensive as building a new road. The company is applying for funding assistance from the N.C. Department of Transportation to build the rail access.

The state requires local support as part of the application for transportation funding. High Point City Council approved a resolution Thursday endorsing the $6 million project and rail improvements.

Pending the N.C. DOT's decision, the company plans a 45,000-square-foot plant. The investment will retain 75 employees and add 25 new people to the work force when in full operation, according to EDC officials.

Smotherman said construction could start later this year.