News reports today that the Ford Ranger plant in St. Paul might stay open for another two years brought a statement of relief from Mayor Chris Coleman today.

The Detroit News reported today that the automaker is considering running the St. Paul plant for two more years.

It had been scheduled to close the plant next year when production of the Ranger ended. The automaker wouldn’t confirm the report of the extension, but Mayor Coleman is encouraged:

“Today’s report that Ford is considering an extension of the life of the plant is welcome news to Saint Paul. Since before I was elected, I have been calling on Ford to keep the plant open indefinitely. We have been in constant communication with Ford, and we are thrilled with the news that a plant extension may be on the table.  As Ford continues to look at their options, the City of Saint Paul and its world class workforce stand ready to work with them in any way we can to find to keep this plant open as long as possible.”