The IndustryWeek announcement noted a dedication to continuous improvement and customer service in the high capacity concrete tie facility.

"This is the second year in a row that IndustryWeek has recognized an L.B. Foster plant for our company's ongoing commitment to safety, operational excellence and employee wellness. Our Spokane team deserves its place on this prestigious list of North America's best managed manufacturing facilities," said Steve Burgess, L.B. Foster director of continuous improvement.

Participation requests for inclusion in the 2012 Best Plants Awards were solicited from companies throughout North America. The annual IndustryWeek Best Plants competition assesses operational functions in a wide range of performance categories across all manufacturing areas and recognizes their excellence. The top manufacturing plants will be chosen from the list of finalists to receive a 2012 IndustryWeek Best Plants Award this Fall. L.B. Foster's Spokane, Wash., facility is currently being evaluated for this honor. The company's Pueblo, Colo., rail products manufacturing plant received the 2011 IndustryWeek Best Plants Award.