Construction is officially underway on Rivian’s new 1.2 million-square-foot supplier park in Normal, Illinois, representing a major step in the company’s long-term electric vehicle (EV) strategy. Supported by a $120 million investment from Rivian and a $16 million incentive package from the State of Illinois, the project is expected to create nearly 100 new direct jobs and enhance the state’s position as a clean energy and transportation leader.
Strategic Location and Purpose
The supplier park will be located near Rivian’s main EV manufacturing facility, allowing key component suppliers to co-locate and streamline their operations. The co-location strategy supports Rivian’s growing production of its R1T pickup, R1S SUV, commercial electric vans, and the forthcoming R2 SUV. Parts will be transported directly across Highway 150 to the main plant—or via an underground tunnel currently being constructed by Rivian—helping to reduce truck traffic on local roads and improve efficiency.
Repairer Driven News reports that the supplier park will include facilities where select suppliers will perform light assembly and sub-manufacturing work. Rivian employees at the park will kit and sequence these components for efficient transfer to the main plant’s assembly lines.
Scope of Construction and Trades Involved
The project involves a wide range of construction and infrastructure work that will support various skilled trades and subcontractors. Key construction elements include:
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Site Preparation and Earthwork – Grading, excavation, and leveling for the expansive 1.2 million-square-foot footprint
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Foundation and Concrete Work – Pouring of concrete pads and reinforced footings for large-scale industrial buildings
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Steel Framing and Erection – Structural steel installation for the main supplier park buildings
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Exterior Enclosure – Roofing, insulated wall panels, and building envelope work for temperature-controlled production environments
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Mechanical Systems – HVAC systems, air handling units, and ventilation for light manufacturing zones
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Electrical and Utility Infrastructure – Installation of new power systems, subpanels, lighting, and electrical infrastructure to support production equipment
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Plumbing and Process Piping – Water supply, compressed air lines, and other necessary systems for operational needs
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Tunnel Construction – Excavation and structural support for the underground tunnel connecting the supplier park to the main plant
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Roadway and Site Access Improvements – Coordination with the Town of Normal to extend roads and install traffic management infrastructure
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Utility Extensions – Water, sewer, stormwater, and data line installation, with support from municipal tax reimbursements
This multifaceted build provides opportunities for trades including equipment operators, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, welders, steelworkers, concrete specialists, and general laborers.
Incentives and Government Support
To support the development, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has awarded a $16 million incentive package. This includes:
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A REV Illinois tax credit of more than $5 million over 20 years
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Additional capital grant support for project costs and infrastructure
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Requirements for Rivian to create a minimum of 93 full-time jobs and invest $119.6 million in the project
The REV Illinois program encourages growth in clean energy and EV manufacturing, making Illinois more competitive for future investments in the supply chain.
Additionally, the Town of Normal is helping with road infrastructure upgrades and utility extensions to support the development, with reimbursement through future tax revenues.
Rivian's Broader EV Strategy
Rivian’s move to shift production of its upcoming R2 SUV to the Normal plant will accelerate the vehicle’s path to market. Production on the R2 is expected to begin in 2026 within a 1.1 million-square-foot expansion currently underway at the Normal facility.
The supplier park is being developed in parallel with this expansion and is intended to support ongoing production even as the company resumes construction of its Georgia plant, which is now scheduled to begin in 2026 with a target operational date of 2028.
By fortifying its supply chain and investing in proximity manufacturing, Rivian is preparing to meet growing demand for its EVs and reduce costs in a volatile global trade environment.
Conclusion
With construction in full swing and partnerships taking shape, the Rivian supplier park in Normal represents a transformative project for Illinois. It not only reinforces Rivian’s manufacturing capabilities but also fuels job creation, infrastructure improvements, and long-term sustainability. For construction workers, tradespeople, and industry professionals, this project is a significant opportunity to contribute to the growth of the EV sector while working on one of the state’s most ambitious clean energy developments.
