CROWN POINT | A high-tech company is opening a research and manufacturing center in Crown Point that promises to create 220 new jobs during the next three years, the governor announced during a visit Tuesday.

Linda Decker, president and CEO of Plasmatronics who was on hand for the governor's visit, announced to a crowd in the Old Courthouse's Maki Ballroom that her firm will move here this summer to begin the process of manufacturing its new Plasma Drive Ignition system. Decker said the system can increase gas milage and reduce air pollution on automobiles, trucks and motorcycles.

"We have chosen to located here in Northwest Indiana because it has a vibrant transportation and logistics industry," Decker said. "Crown Point is offering us affordable, high-quality commercial property convenient to Purdue University and Argonne Lab. You have highly skilled and trained people who we look forward to bringing into our team."

Gov. Mitch Daniels, Mayor Dan Klein and Professor Chenn Qian Zhou, of Purdue University Calumet, were present to welcome Plasmatronics entry into Northwest Indiana.

"This is a really proud day for Crown Point, Lake County and Northwest Indiana," the governor said. "These are high-tech, high-pay research jobs built around multiple technologies with the penchant to grow."

The privately held company based in Moriches, NY., is set to open a 9,000-square-foot office in June within the Summit Street/Millennium Park corridor. It's getting the help of $1.23 million in tax credits from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation and a $500,000 loan from the City of Crown Point.

Officials estimate Plasmatronics will represent a $2.1-million capital investment and provide jobs that pay an average of $23 per hour.

Decker said Plasmatronics designs and manufacturers an under-the-hood component that replaces the conventional spark plug with a more efficient process.

She said the ignition system also will allow motor vehicles to burn alternate fuels such as ethanol.