LLC 313 Bascule Bridge- China?

[1688torpedo]

 Hello Heli!    Around 1996-97 Lionel transfered some of their Production to China & that is how your Bascule Bridge was made. In 2001 Their main factory in Michigan was Shut down & the rest of production was sent to Korea/China after that. Take Care.

[LS1Heli]

I just received my recent purchase a 12948 313 Bascule Bridge from 1997-98 Lionel Herritage Collection. I thought that prior to 2000 ALL Lionel Trains were made in MI. However, the shipping carton clearly states China! I understand that some high-end scale items where made in Korea during the early 90's...but I was shocked to this.

Whats up with that? Maybe I was incorrectly informed!