The landscape of travel stops in South Tehama County is set to change as the TA Travel Center in Corning, California, announces its closure. This development marks a significant shift for both local residents and travelers who frequent this location along their journeys.
“Like any successful business, we are constantly evaluating our portfolio to ensure we are operating in locations where it makes sense for our customers and our business,” stated a company spokesperson, indicating a strategic business decision behind the closure. Interestingly, the spokesperson also pointed out the proximity of another company location, situated directly across the street, suggesting a consolidation of services rather than a complete withdrawal from the area.
Adding a new dimension to the Petro Corning location across the street, a KFC outlet is slated to open soon. This expansion aims to enhance the amenities available at the Petro site, which already boasts a comprehensive range of services for professional drivers. These include six TA Truck Service maintenance bays, emergency roadside assistance, 14 diesel lanes, 10 showers, a CAT Scale, and laundry facilities. The company emphasizes that these amenities are designed to provide drivers with a “home away from home” experience, even with the Corning TA Travel Center ceasing operations.
The closure, expected to take effect in mid-October, is reported to result in the loss of approximately 40 jobs. While TA Travel Center has not officially confirmed this number, the potential job losses add to the economic concerns in Corning, especially following recent mass layoffs at Andersen and Sons Shelling.
Corning City Manager Brant Mesker expressed surprise at the announcement, revealing that he had only recently become aware of the impending closure. Demonstrating concern for the affected employees, Mesker has indicated a willingness to extend support services, similar to those offered to employees of Andersen and Sons Shelling, and plans to collaborate with the Job Training Center to facilitate this assistance.
This closure follows closely on the heels of significant layoffs at Andersen and Sons Shelling, where around 321 employees were reportedly laid off in late July. With approximately half of these individuals residing in the Corning area, the community is facing a period of economic adjustment. A website has been established to support those affected by the Andersen and Sons Shelling layoffs, offering resources in both English and Spanish, acknowledging the linguistic diversity of the workforce impacted. Despite the layoffs, Andersen and Sons Shelling still employs around 60 to 65 individuals to process their remaining 2023 product, indicating ongoing but reduced operations.
While the TA Travel Center closure will undoubtedly be felt in Corning, travelers and professional drivers can find continued services and expanded food options at the nearby Petro Corning location. The situation underscores the dynamic nature of travel infrastructure and the importance of staying informed about changes that may affect travel plans and local communities.
