The ill effects of the economy again hitting Kankakee with the announced closing of Space Center Distribution Chicago. The distribution warehouse on E. Willow Street plans to close March 31, laying off 46 workers.

Kankakee Mayor Nina Epstein said she is optimistic another company will rent the facility.

The mayor tells the Daily-Journal, "a lot of these companies are dealing with the global economy. What happens in China can affect us here." Epstein said 'the facility is in good shape, and she's sure someone will want to put it to use.'

The Grundy Livingston Kankakee Workforce Board, as well as the Economic Alliance of Kankakee County, plan on hosting a job fair around late January or early February for the laid off workers.

94.1 WGFA