Seattle, WA, USA--(Jobwerx News)--Alcoa will close its Hawesville, KY, automotive casting facility by the end of 2005.

The plant closing, which will impact 158 people, is a result of excess capacity in Alcoa's automotive castings manufacturing system. Costs for the closing will total approximately $45 to $50 million pre-tax, the majority of which will be non-cash impairment charges and will impact second quarter earnings.

According to Allen Zwierzchowski, President of Alcoa Automotive Castings, "This plant closing is not a reflection on the strong workforce we have in Hawesville. They are a talented and dedicated group. Unfortunately this facility is operating at less than 20 percent of its capacity. With certain program contracts winding down, the plant from a business perspective is no longer viable."

Alcoa is the world's leading producer and manager of primary aluminum, fabricated aluminum and alumina facilities.

Plans to sell the facility, by Alcoa, include working with the community to attract buyers that could utilize the plant and lessen the impact of the closing.

Alcoa Automotive Castings, Headquartered in Farmington Hills, MI, will continue to operate its other castings facilities in Farsund, Norway and Fruitport, MI. Alcoa Automotive Castings, supplies to automakers worldwide, structural, safety-critical components such as knuckles, control arms, cradles and sub-frames for the automotive industry.

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Alcoa serves the aerospace, automotive, packaging, building and construction, commercial transportation and industrial markets, bringing design, engineering, production and other capabilities to market. Alcoa also markets consumer brands including Reynolds Wrap® foils and plastic wraps, Alcoa® wheels, and Baco® household wraps. Among its other businesses are vinyl siding, closures, fastening systems, precision castings, and electrical distribution systems for cars and trucks.