A California-based mechanical manufacturer has chosen Suffolk for its first East Coast distribution center.

American Condenser and Coil announced Wednesday that it will lease 50,000 square feet at Northgate Logistics Center. The project is expected to bring $500,000 in new capital investment and 20 new jobs to the city.

“Our new East Coast facility gives American Condenser and Coil a nationwide reach,” Jim Hastie, president of the company, said in a city press release. “We are excited to be building this flagship operation in Suffolk and look forward to many years of a successful partnership with the city.”

The company, founded in 1995, is a leading manufacturer and distributor of automotive condensers, and also manufactures custom industrial coils such as water, steam, evaporator, booster, condenser and DX coils.

“We are extremely pleased that American Condenser and Coil chose Suffolk for their first East Coast distribution center,” Mayor Linda T. Johnson said. “Suffolk provides an excellent strategic location for manufacturing and distribution services with close proximity to the Port of Virginia. We look forward to working with them to ensure a smooth transition and future growth to our area.”

The new center is expected to be fully functional by January. Northgate Logistics Center is located off Nansemond Parkway near Shoulders Hill Road.