STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. -

A Chrysler manufacturing plant slated for closure has reversed course, and is now set to build an all-new model and welcome hundreds of new workers.

On Friday, Chrysler Group chairman and chief executive officer Sergio Marchionne announced the addition of 800 jobs at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Michigan, to support production of the midsize 2015 Chrysler 200.

The facility had been slated to close in December 2010, but community leaders and employees rallied together to rewrite the plant's fate.

"The revitalization of SHAP is an apt symbol of how far Chrysler has come because of the courage and resilience of our people," Marchionne said. "This plant was scheduled to close by the end of 2010. But the workers and the leaders of this community refused to accept this verdict as final."

With a rallying theme of “I Believe,” the community effort to save the plant led to its repurchase in March 2010, and extension of production through 2012.

In July 2010, Chrysler announced that SHAP would remain open indefinitely. A second shift of production, about 900 jobs, was added in first quarter 2011.

Later that year, thanks to continued demand and new product on the horizon, Chrysler Group confirmed it would invest nearly $850 million to construct an all-new, state-of-the-art paint shop, and install new machinery, tooling and material-handling equipment.

A second investment of $165 million for a new body shop was announced in October 2011.

"This celebration has been a long time coming for the workforce here at Sterling Heights," said UAW President Bob King. "They have proven that American autoworkers lead the world in building quality products. What has been achieved here is a testament to the collaborative spirit that exists between the UAW and Chrysler."

With the two new facilities, the plant is now one of the most flexible and state-of-the-art in the company, with nearly five million square feet of manufacturing space.

The company said SHAP is now capable of building multiple vehicles on two unique architectures. Total employment at SHAP has grown to nearly 2,800, more than double what it was in 2009.

Marchionne applauded employees for their focus and dedication. 

"Your resolve has set an inspiring example for everyone at Chrysler, showing what can happen when you find the strength and courage to fight for something worthwhile," he said.

"I'm proud to be associated with you, and to be on this exciting journey with you, of continued growth that will secure jobs and make a positive contribution to the communities where we live and work."

Since June 2009, Chrysler Group has announced investments of nearly $5.2 billion and added almost 13,400 hourly employees.