Rep. Bill Owens (D-Plattsburgh) isn’t happy that Alcoa’s operations in Massena are being reduced, but he’s pleased the news isn’t worse.

The world’s largest aluminum producer announced Wednesday that one potline at its Massena East plant will be shut down permanently as part of a company-wide reduction in capacity.

“While I am disappointed by this situation I am happy Alcoa is going forward with their recently begun expansion project,” Owens said.

The other two potlines at East will continue to operate and scheduled work on the $600 million modernization project for the Massena East plant will continue, according to Alcoa-Massena spokeswoman Laurie Marr.

The older plant was a Reynolds Metals operation until it was bought by Alcoa.

“I am hopeful today’s news will not result in layoffs and that the expansion will ultimately increase employment in Northern New York,” Owens said in his statement.

“We do not anticipate layoffs at this time,” Marr said. “It is our goal to minimize the impact on employees. Discussions will take place with the United Steel Workers union in the coming weeks to work out details.”

The closures and curtailments will be complete by the end of September.

Owens represents New York’s 21st Congressional District, which spans northern New York from the eastern border with Vermont, west to Lake Ontario, and south to Saratoga and Herkimer counties.