Local Paper Mill Closing 12:14 am The Roaring Spring paper mill will soon be closing for good, according to the Altoona Blair County Development Corporation. ABCD Corporation spoke directly with Appvion officials who confirmed the plant would be closing in March or early April, according to ABCD President Stephen McKnight. “In the best economic times this would be devastating news for the local workforce, their families and our community,” McKnight said “In the current global climate, it’s even worse. We are shocked and simply at a loss by this sudden announcement.” McKnight says ABCD has activated the regional workforce rapid response team to help place as many of the manufacturers as possible within their labor shed before turning their attention to marketing the facility to other potential operators.