Michigan #1 State for Automotive Manufacturing

by | Jul 28, 2021 | Regional News

Header 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

July 28, 2021

Governor Whitmer Announces Michigan #1 State for Automotive Manufacturing According to Business Facilities 

  • Michigan also takes top 10 rankings in additional manufacturing categories, food processing leaders, health care jobs and cybersecurity
  • Ann Arbor, Detroit and Grand Rapids receive Top 10 honors in metro category

 

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced Michigan has been recognized with six top 10 spots on Business Facilities’ 17th annual Rankings Report for 2021, including a repeat performance with a #1 ranking in the Automotive Manufacturing Strength category. Under Governor Whitmer’s leadership, Michigan has created a record 11,000 new auto jobs in her first year of office, secured the first new auto plant in Detroit in over 30 years, and the Big Three automakers have collectively invested billions of dollars in the future of mobility.

 

“These Business Facilities rankings reaffirm what we already know: Michigan’s manufacturing workforce is who you turn to when you want to get the job done,” said Governor Whitmer. “We are building on our rich manufacturing heritage as we jumpstart our economy, create thousands of good-paying jobs, and position Michigan as a top state to start and grow a business. As Michigan builds our way out of the pandemic, we have an opportunity to build a nation for the next generation and create economic prosperity for years to come.”

 

In a reinforcement of the state’s manufacturing expertise, Michigan not only maintained its leading position in automotive manufacturing strength, it also held steady in the top 5 states for manufacturing relative to employment (#4) as well as manufacturing output (#4). This strong showing in the manufacturing sector, in spite of the impacts of a global pandemic, demonstrates the advantages Michigan offers as companies look to strengthen supply chains here in the U.S., as well as Governor Whitmer’s approach to securing short-term small business relief during the past year, while continuing to build a runway for long-term economic recovery in the state.

 

In addition to a strong showing in manufacturing categories, Michigan also was recognized in categories of health care jobs (#8), food processing leaders (#10) and cybersecurity (#10).

 

Last week, Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist joined officials from Michigan State Police and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation at the CyberAuto Challenge at Macomb Community College to highlight the state’s leadership in cybersecurity and workforce training. Michigan is also home to the Michigan Cyber Range, the nation’s largest unclassified cyber range with hubs across the state offering more than forty industry-recognized certifications, exercises and workshops aimed at qualifying individuals for positions and contracts in cybersecurity fields and Michigan is a Top 10 state for Michigan is a top 10 state for net tech employment according to CompTIA’s 2019 Cyberstates report.

 

In addition to industry-specific rankings, several Michigan metropolitan areas took Top 10 honors, including Ann Arbor for best health care hubs (#1), Detroit for best business climate for large metro areas (#9) and Grand Rapids for best business climate for mid-sized metro areas (#3).

 

The cities of Grand Rapids-Wyoming also earned a spot in the Top 10 best health care hubs (#10) and Gross Domestic Product (#2) categories.

 

“From advanced manufacturing to cybersecurity and tech, we are focused on securing Michigan’s leadership in the industries that will drive our economy into the future, and we’re proud these efforts have been recognized in these Business Facilities rankings,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr. CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and President and Chair of the Michigan Strategic Fund. “We congratulate our regional partners in Ann Arbor, Detroit and Grand Rapids on their strong showing as well.  Economic development is a team sport and in Michigan, we take an wholistic approach to economic development that is building a championship economy for 10 million+ Michiganders right here. Work remains, yet we celebrate and are encouraged by this progress.”

 

Business Facilities is a national publication that has been the leading location source for corporate site selectors and economic development professionals for more than 50 years. Read more about Michigan’s rankings in Business Facilities’ 2021 report here.

 

The Business Facilities rankings come on the heels of additional recognition for Michigan’s business climate in recent months, including:

 

 

  • Recognition as a top state in sustainable development practices by Site Selection magazine, affirming Michigan’s commitment to green energy practices and social responsibility while continuing to be a state where businesses can succeed and grow.

 

  • Area Development’s 2021 Golden Shovel Award for excellence in job creation and investment projects initiated in 2020 in the 8-12 million population category, with 2,619 new jobs created and $441.8 million in private investment.

 

  • Ranking 6th in the nation for total jobs created by foreign direct investment and top state for FDI job growth over the past five years by Global Business Alliance. Detroit was also ranked the no. 1 metropolitan area for FDI projects by Site Selection Magazine this year.

 

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
Second Round Of Financial Relief For Military Veterans

Second Round Of Financial Relief For Military Veterans

by | Jul 28, 2021 | Local News

Oakland County Announces Second Round Of Financial Relief For Military Veterans Impacted By Pandemic

Waterford, Michigan – Oakland County Veterans Services announced today that a second round of funding has been allocated for the Veterans COVID-19 Emergency Financial Relief Program, providing financial assistance to county veterans, service members and eligible dependents impacted by the pandemic.

A total of $50,000 in funding is available through the grant provided by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency. The first round of $182,000 was distributed to Oakland County veterans earlier this year. There is a cap of $2,500 per person, including food assistance, which has a $200 limit. The grants can be used for food, utilities, waste removal, property taxes and personal care expenses. The application period is now open. Persons can apply at oakgov.com/veterans.

To be eligible, a person must be an Oakland County resident and have received an honorable discharge from the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, National Guard, Reserves, or women’s auxiliaries. Eligibility documentation is required as part of the application process.

“Early in the pandemic, we knew there was a strong need for financial assistance for our veterans who were impacted by COVID-19, whether they lost a job or were having a hard time paying bills,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter. “The need for help has not gone away and this new round of financial relief could not come soon enough. We expect there to be continuing interest from our veterans and now it’s time to serve them.”

Veterans, service members and their dependents who may not have access to the internet for completing an application online can do so by contacting the Oakland County Veterans Services Division in Pontiac, at 248-858-0785.

In addition to the relief program, Oakland County Veterans Services offers a broad range of services to the men and women who served the country, including assistance in securing service-connected disability compensation, health care and transportation services, employment and education resources, pension support, life insurance and burial benefits.

“Oakland County Veterans Services is dedicated to helping our veterans receive all of the benefits they earned through their service to our country,” said Division Manager Garth Wootten. “Our highly trained and accredited Veteran Benefits Counselors are ready to guide you and your family members through the application process and advocate on your behalf.”

A new marketing campaign highlighting the sacrifices made by Oakland County veterans and the support Oakland County is providing them was launched earlier this month through radio, billboard, direct mail, newspaper, and social media advertising across the region.

“Our message is simple: let us serve you,” Wootten said. “We know older veterans are in most need of the no-cost services offered through our office, but they are available to any honorably discharged veteran, no matter their age, health or work status. We encourage veterans to take advantage of them at any time after they leave the service.”

Bridge demolition requires closing portion of I-75

Bridge demolition requires closing portion of I-75

by | Jul 28, 2021 | Transportation

MDOT E-mail

MDOT on facebook MDOT on Twitter MDOT on YouTube Mi Drive - Know before you go. MDOT on Instagram Sign up for E-mails form MDOT
 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                 WEDNESDAY, JULY 28, 2021

 

CONTACT: Rob Morosi, MDOT Office of Communications, 248-483-5107

[email protected]

 

Bridge demolition requires closing a

portion of I-75 this weekend in Detroit

 

Fast facts:

– MDOT is repairing 12 bridges on I-75 between Meade Avenue and 7 Mile Road.  

– Demolition work on Meade Avenue requires closing both directions of I-75 between I-94 and M-8 (Davison Freeway).  

– The closure starts at 9 p.m. Friday and ends by 5 a.m. Monday.

 

July 28, 2021 — Weather permitting, demolition of the Meade Avenue overpass above I-75 is scheduled to take place this weekend in Detroit. To safely accomplish this work, contracting crews will close both directions of I-75 between I-94 and M-8 (Davison Freeway) from 9 p.m. Friday, July 30, to 5 a.m. Monday, Aug. 2.

During the closure, northbound I-75 traffic will be detoured to westbound I-94, then northbound M-10 (Lodge Freeway) to eastbound M-102 (Eight Mile Road) back to northbound I-75. The McNichols Road and 7 Mile Road entrance ramps to northbound I-75 will be available for local traffic.

Southbound I-75 traffic will be detoured to westbound M-8, then southbound M-10 back to southbound I-75. The Caniff and Holbrook avenues and Clay Street entrance ramps to southbound I-75 will be available for local traffic.

This work is part of extensive bridge repair on 12 structures over I-75 between Meade Avenue and 7 Mile Road. During active work, two lanes of I-75 will be open in each direction between 8 Mile Road and Meade Avenue. The project includes repairing the structures at the I-75/M-8 interchange that will result in ramp closures throughout the season. The eastbound M-8 ramp to northbound I-75 will be closed for the duration of the project.

All work on this $13 million investment is expected to be completed in late November.
Proclamation Marking July 28 – Aug. 4 as Buy Michigan Week

Proclamation Marking July 28 – Aug. 4 as Buy Michigan Week

by | Jul 28, 2021 | Regional News

Header 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 28, 2021

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Signs Proclamation Marking July 28 – August 4 as Buy Michigan Week 

 

LANSING, Mich. — Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a proclamation marking July 28 – August 4 as Buy Michigan Week.

 

“Michigan businesses have been resilient through the pandemic and I am committed to getting them the support they need as we continue Michigan’s economic jumpstart,” said Governor Whitmer. “Buying local has never been more important as we continue to build up our economy stronger than ever. With each purchase made at a Michigan retailer, you can help keep more money in your community and improve your quality of life as we put Michigan back to work.”

 

“Strengthening our local economies and getting Michiganders back to work is a priority for our administration,” said Lt. Governor Gilchrist. “I encourage all Michiganders to support our wonderful industries and local businesses this week and always. From shopping at a local boutique, to dining at a family-owned restaurant, there are countless ways to support Michigan businesses. Getting our economy back on track starts right here in our neighborhoods.”

 

“Small businesses like local retailers are the backbone of Michigan’s vibrant economy,” said William J. Hallan, President and CEO of Michigan Retailers Association. “As we continue to emerge from the pandemic, we encourage all Michiganders to keep their money in the Mitten by shopping local, and we thank the Administration for reminding residents of the importance of supporting the local retailers and businesses who make Michigan’s downtowns great places to shop and visit.”

 

“The programs our Governor worked to put in place helped my business,” said Rosie Pietila, owner of Rosies’s Foods. “My business survived and we are looking forward to a great future.”

 

Last week, Governor Whitmer kicked off the MI Small Business Summer tour to recognize Michigan’s small businesses that have shown resiliency throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the pandemic, the state’s dozens of economic relief programs for businesses supported more than 25,000 companies and retained more than 200,000 jobs.

 

With additional state revenues expected and billions of dollars in incoming federal funding, Michigan is in a strong position to make investments that can transform the landscape for small businesses.

 

In addition to the suite of proposals dedicated to small business and restaurants laid out in Governor Whitmer’s Economic Jumpstart Plan, throughout the pandemic, the state has implemented 23 economic relief programs for businesses, supported more than 25,000 companies and retained more than 200,000 jobs.

Learn more and find resources for Small Businesses at Michigan.gov/SmallBusinesses.

 

View the full proclamation here.
Plan for Historic Investment in Affordable Housing 

Plan for Historic Investment in Affordable Housing 

by | Jul 27, 2021 | Regional News

Header 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

July 27, 2021

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Announces Plan for Historic Investment in Safe and Affordable Housing Across Michigan

 

DETROIT, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced plans to make an historic investment in affordable housing that addresses the health, safety, and well-being of Michigan residents and communities grappling with unique and varied housing needs. The proposal would assist 6,000 Michiganders, produce 2,000 rental housing units, and leverage an additional $380 million in private funding, while creating 1,600 good-paying jobs.

 

“This new housing investment will make a huge difference in the lives of Michiganders because a home is the foundation for long-term prosperity,” said Governor Whitmer. “Investments in housing infrastructure are crucial as we build our economy back better from the pandemic and put Michigan back to work in thousands of good-paying jobs. This transformational investment will put Michiganders first by expanding access to affordable and attainable housing, helping close equity gaps, and supporting the development of vibrant communities across the state.”

 

“Safe, affordable housing empowers Michigan residents to lead lives with dignity and respect,” said Lt. Governor Gilchrist. “These funds will help Michiganders access more than housing – they can create a place that they can call home. Stable housing allows people to put down roots and become embedded in their communities. Governor Whitmer and I are committed to ensuring that every Michigander has access to safe, affordable housing, and are investing in communities across our state.”

 

At Citizen Robotics, a next-generation housing manufacturing facility, the governor announced the proposed investment of $100 million of federal relief dollars from President Biden’s American Rescue Plan into the Michigan Housing and Community Development Fund (HCDF). This move would give the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) a powerful tool to foster innovation and creativity in both affordable and attainable housing creation.

 

“By leveraging additional private capital, we will be able to amplify this major investment to its fullest extent,” said MSHDA Acting Executive Director Gary Heidel. “The current magnitude of the housing shortage is so large that solving the supply problem will take significant coordination of both public and private resources, coordination that the Housing and Community Development Fund was designed to do.”

 

The HCDF was established by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority Act of 1966 but has not always been funded by the legislature. Its purpose is to develop and coordinate public and private resources to meet the affordable housing needs of low-income households and to revitalize downtown areas in Michigan.

 

The flexibility of the HCDF allows it to be used to provide grants and loans to finance a wide range of housing-related projects including: acquisition, rehabilitation, new construction, development and predevelopment, preservation of existing housing, community development projects, insurance, down payment assistance, security deposit assistance, activities that address homelessness, assistance to nonprofit and for-profit developers, municipalities, land banks, and community development financial institutions.

 

The proposed investment has the support of some of Michigan’s strongest affordable housing advocates.

 

“Communities throughout our state are facing a significant shortage of attainable housing,” said Dan Gilmartin, Michigan Municipal League CEO and Executive Director. “The financial support being sought by Governor Whitmer will benefit people, places, and business. This is an important step toward leveraging our available resources to begin addressing our housing needs. We look forward to partnering on this issue and similar strategic proposals for infrastructure, local fiscal stability, community and economic development, and public health and safety in ways that support economic prosperity for everyone.”

 

Investment in the fund would allow MSHDA to specifically target workforce housing and “missing middle” housing for those transitioning from low-income into middle-income housing, two areas of need in Michigan.

 

“Small businesses say potential employees are often priced out of the market when it comes to rents or reasonable mortgages. And it’s no wonder Michigan needs 200,000 more housing units to meet the need. The governor’s proposal is a wise investment, considering every $1 of public money attracts $11 from private investors to create such housing. This will create jobs, support working families and stabilize our communities,” said Luke Forrest, executive director of the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM).

 

MSHDA will develop an allocation plan for the HCDF and a formula for disbursement based on poverty rates, and economic and housing distress.

 

“Builders are not building or renovating homes that people with average, or low incomes can afford to buy due to the high cost of supplies and high demand from buyers who can afford homes at the $300,000 price point and above,” said Sandy Pearson, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Michigan. “There are also many people with limited income and limited abilities, such as our veterans, seniors, and people with disabilities, living in homes that need repairs. Habitat for Humanity builders can partner with more households if the funding is in place and ensure our partner families have a safe, secure, and energy efficient home in which to live, learn, work, and thrive.”

 

You can read more about this plan here.