— TROY, Mich., (February 24, 2011) – Ride Control, LLC (Gabriel), the originator of the world’s first shock absorber in 1907, announces an additional investment of $3.1 million into its Chickasha, Okla. facility.

Ride Control will spend $2.1 million this year to install a new roof over the facility (approximately 370,000 square feet). It is expected to be completed in June 2011.

The company will finance the majority of this through a loan supplied by the Chickasha Economic Development fund. The loan closing was completed between Ride Control President Lisa Bahash and city Mayor Hank Ross on Wednesday, February 23, 2011.

Additionally, Ride Control will have made $1 million in improvements to the manufacturing facility, all to be completed within the next six months, including: installing new energy efficient lighting; increasing production capacity by installing three new computerized numerical control machines (CNC); rebuilding its chrome plating lines for increased output; and adding a new cooling tower.

In 2009, Ride Control, LLC made a commitment to Chickasha and to its valued and experienced employee base to remain and grow it’s manufacturing and distribution efforts there.

“We continue to work diligently with representatives of the Chickasha Economic Development Council and the City of Chickasha to ensure that Gabriel remains a successful company that can grow and contribute to the long term success of the community and state,” said Lisa Bahash, president, Ride Control, LLC. “Through this loan, we have been able to leverage other funds and have made a significant investment in new equipment and other interior improvements.”

“Gabriel’s investment in its facility and in Chickasha has been great news for the area,” said Chickasha Mayor Hank Ross. “The company has become a true community partner, delivering on its commitment and adding jobs and revenue to the area.”

Investment in Chickasha is core to the company’s longer-term strategy to expand its distribution and workforce in North America.