The materials science company Corning Incorporated has announced plans to build an optical cable plant in Gilbert.

The industry’s western-most U.S. manufacturing site is slated to open in 2024 and create 250 jobs.

Corning has invested more than $500 million in fiber and cable manufacturing since 2020, nearly doubling its output.

The company has a longstanding relationship with AT&T, and together they have established a Fiber Optic Training Program to meet growing labor demand in the industry.

The project is spurred in part by the Biden administration’s $45 billion Internet for All program.

In July, the Arizona Commerce Authority awarded $100 million in broadband grants to rural and urban communities statewide.