LAKEWOOD - Alpha Associates, a family-owned and -operated business, celebrated its groundbreaking last week at the Lakewood Industrial Park. The New Jersey-based company is growing operations and building new facilities in Lakewood; the firm also has operations in Charleston, S.C., and Woodbridge, Middlesex County.

According to a press release, the growth will create 25 new jobs in New Jersey and will increase the current staffing level of Alpha in Lakewood from 30 to 130.

Founded in 1968, Alpha Associates develops, manufactures and markets high-performance industrial fabrics, composites and elastomers. Alpha products are used in a wide range of applications and industries including aerospace, automotive, marine, petrochemical, packaging, metal building, food processing, electronics and screen printing, according to a press release.

Christopher Avallone, president and chief operating officer of his family's company, joined the organization in 1988, 20 years after his father, A. Louis Avallone, chairman and chief executive officer, founded the company.

Originally, the company was a manufacturer of specialty materials for the United States' space program; their current core technologies are used in a variety of industries, including high-temperature insulation, commercial construction, automotive and aerospace.

"When we originally purchased the property in Lakewood, we did so with an eye toward the future with hopes to someday expand our operation here and build a new research and development center," Christopher Avallone said. "While the other facilities have a lot to offer, over the years, we have become a member of the Lakewood community."

The Avallones are New Jersey natives, with deep roots in their community and are active contributors to local charities, according to the press release.

Avallone continued, "At a time when the business community is questioning New Jersey's commitment to a business-friendly environment, we are pleased that the state and local community has welcomed a New Jersey company with open arms.

"We are looking forward to a long and successful relationship with Lakewood, Ocean County and the state of New Jersey," he said.

State Sen. Robert Singer (R-30), who is also a member of the Lakewood Township Committee, presented the Avallones with a joint resolution commemorating the groundbreaking, and Lakewood Mayor Meir Lichtenstein presented the family with a proclamation.