Ford Workers OK Contract, Paving Way For New Jobs In Chicago

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Ford Motor Co. workers today approved a new national labor contract, despite the objections of workers here in Chicago.

The UAW says 63 percent of its members ratified the agreement.

Workers at the Chicago assembly plant on Torrence Avenue did not support the contract. They objected to the lower pay scale for new workers. However, the overall national vote supersedes any local results.

The agreement means 1,200 new Ford jobs for Chicago, where workers make the company's Ford Explorer SUV, Taurus and other models.

In a statement this morning, Mayor Rahm Emanuel said he is a pleased that Ford is making an additional investment in the city.

Ford Motor Company will invest up to $200 million to expand its Chicago area facilities and add a third shift at its Chicago Assembly Plant, with the state providing a business investment package that will support the creation of the 1,200 jobs.

The Sun-Times Media Wire contributed to this report