Rolls-Royce and other companies in Plainfield’s industrial and distribution parks have continued to grow during the national recession, according to town officials who feel the community is weathering the economic storm.

“We’re seeing enough activity in economic development that we can say Plainfield isn’t as bad off as some other towns,” said Town Manager Rich Carlucci.

Among recent leases of large buildings that will bring jobs to Plainfield, Rolls-Royce has signed to use more than 37,000 square feet of manufacturing and office space in MetroAir Business Park.

Rolls will use part of the space in MetroAir 3, which has nearly 250,000 square feet near Stafford Road and Ronald Reagan Parkway.

A news release from building owners Horn Properties and McShane Development indicated that Rolls will use the space for production of a jet engine component.

A state building permit application filed June 8 confirms Rolls as the tenant, with office and manufacturing operations in the building.

Rolls later declined to release more details, saying further comment is premature.

The company, which already has engineering and other operations in other Plainfield buildings, will become the second tenant in MetroAir 3. Pitney Bowes Government Solutions already leases nearly 100,000 square feet in the building.

Also in Plainfield’s industrial parks, mattress and cushion manufacturer Span-America has leased about 144,000 square feet in a 275,000-square-foot warehouse at 6032 Gateway Drive. It is near I-70 and Ind. 267.

The company is expected to begin operations this month.

Kent McPhail, executive director of the Plainfield Chamber of Commerce and member of the Town Council, said existing companies in the industrial park are looking to expand.

He said FoxConn, one of the largest manufacturers of computer components in the world, is looking at more space in Plainfield.

In retailing and restaurants, the Metropolis shopping mall is running smoothly even though developer Premier Properties has gone out of business. Court-appointed receivers are running Premier’s operations in Plainfield and other communities to keep the shopping centers open.

McPhail said pizza chains, a noodle restaurant and other eateries and retailers are considering potential locations around Metropolis and along Main Street in Plainfield.

“We keep hearing that it’s not only the good schools and the trails that are bring new people and new businesses here, but other amenities, too,” Carlucci said.