It’s exciting news that Berry Plastics is seriously considering a $58 million expansion at its Lawrence Packerware plant.

The project, which could mean the addition of 78 employees over the next three years, would be a wonderful boost to a long-term successful business in Lawrence. Packer Plastics was founded in Lawrence in 1968 and later was sold to Berry Plastics. It currently operates a 470,000-square-foot plant that employs about 450 people.

Attracting new companies to the community is great, but supporting a loyal existing business like Packerware can be even better. Although Berry officials reportedly are seriously considering the Lawrence plant for expansion, the project apparently is not an accomplished deal. This isn’t a time for Lawrence officials to take anything for granted. Whatever tax incentives are requested by the company should get careful consideration.

Packerware is a solid local company that has earned the confidence and support of local officials. City and Lawrence Chamber of Commerce officials should do their part to repay that loyalty by doing what they can to help facilitate the proposed expansion at the Lawrence plant.