Governor Whitmer Announces $5.5 Million Investment Protects 85 Jobs in Houghton and Manistique

Photo byMichigan Governor's Office

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula receives $5.5 million in investments to safeguard jobs, upgrade industry, and revitalize downtown areas, reinforcing economic growth.

Major Investments Support Jobs, Housing, and Sustainability

Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced a $5.5 million investment initiative to support economic and community revitalization efforts in the Upper Peninsula. The projects will protect 85 jobs and fund business upgrades and housing development, enhancing regional growth in Houghton and Schoolcraft counties.

“These projects represent more than $5.5 million of investment and protect good-paying jobs,” said Whitmer. “By investing in people and places, we are proving that Michigan is the best place to live, work, and invest.”

Northern Hardwoods Secures $4.75 Million Investment to Retain Jobs

The Northern Hardwoods Lumber facility in Atlantic Mine will receive $4.75 million for critical infrastructure upgrades, safeguarding 85 jobs at risk if the facility’s outdated boiler system failed. The improvements will include installing a biomass boiler and steam turbine, which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy efficiency, and secure the company’s long-term viability.

The project is bolstered by a $250,000 Michigan Business Development Program grant and a $1 million Wood Innovations Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Northern Hardwoods, owned by JM Longyear, plays a key role in processing timber from the region’s hardwood forests, producing 20 million board feet annually.

“This investment ensures Northern Hardwoods can continue operations while retaining our talented workforce,” said Cody Meier, Director of Financial Planning at JM Longyear. “We are grateful for the MEDC’s support, which allows us to utilize the renewable resources the Upper Peninsula offers.”

With average wages of $23.76 per hour, Northern Hardwoods employees earn well above the regional median, solidifying the sawmill’s importance to the local economy.

Cedar Street Real Estate to Revitalize Downtown Manistique

In Manistique, Cedar Street Real Estate will redevelop a historic downtown bank building into a mixed-use commercial and residential property. Supported by a $250,000 Build MI Community Program grant, the project will transform 4,670 sq. ft. of vacant office space into three residential apartments, representing $820,000 in capital investment.

Local support for the project includes an OPRA tax abatement valued at $81,577, with additional backing from regional economic development agency Invest UP’s Build UP program.

Kristina Behrens, co-developer with Antonio Adan, emphasized the project’s impact: “Adding new apartments addresses the housing shortage and revitalizes the downtown commercial corridor. We’re excited to invest in the community where our family has roots.”

State’s Broader Economic and Environmental Goals

The investments align with Michigan’s broader economic strategy, which focuses on job retention, community revitalization, and sustainable development. Northern Hardwoods' energy-efficient upgrades also reflect the state's MI Healthy Climate Plan and recent federal policies, including the CHIPS Act, Inflation Reduction Act, and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

“These projects reflect our commitment to business development, job retention, and vibrant communities,” said Matt McCauley, MEDC Senior Vice President of Regional Development. “Northern Hardwoods and Cedar Street Real Estate exemplify the kind of impactful work driving growth in the Upper Peninsula.”

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