Kicking Off Road Construction Season

Kicking Off Road Construction Season

by | Apr 10, 2026 | News
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Dear Friend,

It’s construction season, Michigan! This spring and summer, we will fix more of the damn state and local roads in communities across Michigan.

As crews begin their work across the state to make Michiganders’ drives smoother and safer, I joined the hardworking men and women rebuilding M-14 and I-96 in Plymouth Township to mark the start of construction season.

I ran for office on fixing the damn roads, and I am proud to be keeping my promise and getting it done. We’re fixing the damn roads everywhere, thanks to the biggest bipartisan roads deal in state history. We’re making a historic, nearly $2 billion investment to fix state and local roads, creating tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, and lowering costs for drivers across Michigan.

By the end of this construction season, we will have fixed 26,500 lane miles of road and nearly 2,000 bridges since I took office. That’s enough pavement to drive from Detroit to the Mackinac Bridge more than 88 times. We have a lot of work ahead, so let’s move some dirt and fix those damn roads!

When you see those orange barrels, slow down—there are Michiganders at work.

Sincerely,

signature

Gretchen Whitmer

Governor

Biggest Deal in MI History to Fix the Damn Roads (State AND Local)

Last year, I was proud to sign into law the biggest deal in Michigan history to fix the damn roads. My seventh balanced budget included a sustainable, long-term investment of nearly $2 billion a year to fix our state and local roads. That means:

🛣️ Better local roads, so every part of your drive is smoother and safer, from the moment you back out of your driveway to the time you arrive at your final destination.

⛽Every penny you pay at the pump goes directly to fixing our roads.

👷‍♀️Thousands of good-paying jobs building a stronger, safer Michigan.

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At a time of so much political division and dysfunction in DC, we’re leading the way in Michigan by making a sustainable, long-term investment in our roads. We’re showing everybody that we can solve big problems and improve people’s lives.
RELEASE: Gov. Whitmer Announces 150 New Jobs with fairlife Expansion, Infrastructure Investment in Ottawa County

RELEASE: Gov. Whitmer Announces 150 New Jobs with fairlife Expansion, Infrastructure Investment in Ottawa County

by | Mar 24, 2026 | News

 

 


Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

March 24, 2026 

Contact: press@michigan.gov 

 

Gov. Whitmer Announces 150 New Jobs with fairlife Expansion, Infrastructure Investment in Ottawa County 

 

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) Board approved support to update and enhance aging infrastructure in the City of Coopersville (Ottawa County), as well as support for an Alternative State Essential Services Assessment abatement to support an expansion of fairlife, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Coca-Cola Company that produces ultra-filtered, lactose-free milk and protein shakes. With this support, the company will invest up to $650 million in its facility and expects to create 150 new jobs. 

 

“Michigan is open for business and on the move. Today’s investment highlights how we’re competing hard for transformational projects and good-paying, high-skill jobs,” said Governor Whitmer. “fairlife’s investment will create 150 new jobs and power $650 million into west Michigan’s economy. This is a huge win for Michigan, and proof that when we work together to improve our infrastructure, train our workers, and revitalize our places, we can compete with anyone.” 

 

“The West Michigan agribusiness corridor is a significant component of Michigan’s overall economy, and it is imperative it has the infrastructure it needs to produce high-quality, high-recognition products that people across the nation know and enjoy,” said Quentin Messer, Jr. CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and chair of the MSF. “We are thrilled to offer our support to the City of Coopersville and fairlife for projects that will impact every component of our ‘Make it in Michigan’ economic development strategy focused on People, Places, and Projects.”  

 

“The City of Coopersville is extremely excited about the opportunity to partner with the MEDC and the State through the Strategic Site Readiness Program to invest in critical water infrastructure that will strengthen our system’s capacity and reliability for both current and future needs,” said Dennis Luce, City Manager for Coopersville.  

 

“This project is not only about improving essential services for our residents and businesses, it also positions us for continued economic growth. In particular, it supports the expansion of fairlife, one of our largest local employers, which is a significant win for our agricultural community here in West Michigan and for dairy suppliers across the entire state,” Luce continued. “This is the kind of forward-looking investment that benefits our city, our region, and Michigan as a whole.” 

 

“Longterm partnerships like these are evidence that companies see the strength of Michigan’s food, agriculture and forestry industry and want to leverage its success,” said Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director Tim Boring. “This investment also reinforces our mission at the state of improving quality of life for Michiganders: We’re committed to attracting projects that improve infrastructure and value-added processing in a way that benefits our industry, our communities and regional economies.” 

 

Site Readiness Funds Approved for Aging Public Infrastructure in the City of Coopersville 

OVERVIEW: The MSF Board approved a $17 million Strategic Site Readiness Program (SSRP) grant for the City of Coopersville (Ottawa County) to use on improvements to a regional water system supporting residents and businesses in the City of Coopersville, Polkton Charter Township, and Allendale Charter Township. The current system is at 80% capacity and over 50 years old. 

 

“Investments like this strengthen the region well beyond a single project,” said Jennifer Owens, president of Lakeshore Advantage. “The combination of private investment and public infrastructure improvements helps address longstanding capacity constraints, supports existing employers, and creates the conditions needed for future business growth and job creation across the community. It also builds momentum for the Lakeshore’s growing agribusiness and food production industry cluster, where reliable infrastructure and a strong supply chain are essential.” 

 

WHY IT MATTERS: A capable water system is critical to attract and retain residents and employers alike, especially as specific infrastructure needs continue to evolve for both. By ensuring the system is ready for current and future demand expectations, the region can begin planning for much-needed housing and court other economic opportunities that cannot currently be considered with otherwise aging infrastructure. The infrastructure updates will also complement upgrades underway with the Southeast Regional Force Main project.  

 

fairlife to Create 150 New Jobs, Bolster Michigan’s Agribusiness Industry

OVERVIEW: The Coca-Cola Company plans to expand production capacity at its fairlife facility in Coopersville (Ottawa County) by adding two additional state-of-the-art, high-speed production lines. fairlife, a producer of lactose-free milk and protein shakes, is experiencing significant growth and needs to expand production to meet growing consumer demand. 

 

The investment of $650 million will include the addition of 150 jobs at the facility and add roughly 245,000 square feet of production space. The project is receiving an Alternative State Essential Services Assessment (ASESA) abatement approved by the MSF Board, valued at approximately $3.9 million. 

 

WHY IT MATTERS: The company’s Coopersville production facility has been part of the community since 2012 and currently employs more than 400 people, making it one of the state’s largest dairy-related food processors. It has expanded several times over the past decade, strengthening and enhancing Michigan’s $125.8 billion food and agriculture economy. 

 

During today’s meeting, the Board also approved: a separate request by Muskegon County to upgrade its wastewater infrastructure; a Michigan Business Development Program grant to La Colombe, a Chobani company; and a Michigan Community Revitalization Loan for 109 apartments in Grand Rapids.

 

NOTE FROM THE MEDC: Investment and job numbers represent the commitment made by the business to the state of Michigan. Terms will be formalized in a performance-based project agreement, with funds disbursed as reimbursement based on eligible expenditures, and are subject to amendment or cancellation if the commitments are not met due to risks or uncertainties. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation provides a public annual report on agreements and their status to the state legislature.  

 

[NEWS RELEASE] Treasury: Be Alert for Scams as State Income Tax Deadline Approaches

[NEWS RELEASE] Treasury: Be Alert for Scams as State Income Tax Deadline Approaches

by | Mar 20, 2026 | News

 

 

 

Treasury Logo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 20, 2026

Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167

Treasury: Be Alert for Scams as State Income Tax Deadline Approaches

Taxpayers Urged to Watch for Phone Scams
and Phishing Schemes

LANSING, Mich. – With this year’s state individual income tax season deadline approaching in about a month, the Michigan Department of Treasury (Treasury) reminds Michiganders to be vigilant as cybercriminals attempt to take advantage of taxpayers.

Cybercriminals typically increase their activity leading up to the April 15 income tax filing deadline through phone scams and email phishing schemes, among other tactics. The criminals try to obtain personal information so they can file income tax returns and claim refunds on behalf of unsuspecting taxpayers or make allegations that taxpayers owe taxes and aggressively demand payment for a quick payout.

“This is the time of year where taxpayers need to be extra alert for possible scams and schemes,” said Deputy Treasurer Kavita Kale, who oversees Treasury’s Revenue Services programs. “Vigilance is really the key to fighting scammers. Always take the extra steps to confirm you are communicating with an authorized source.

Cybercriminals often alter correspondence—like phone numbers, emails and letters—to make it look like Treasury, the Internal Revenue Service or another official agency is contacting them. The scammers may use organization names, employee titles, a person’s name, address and other information to sound official.

Treasury does not:

  • Call or email to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method, such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. Generally, Treasury will first send a bill through the U.S. mail to any taxpayer who owes taxes.
  • Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying.
  • Demand that taxes be paid without giving the taxpayer the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
  • Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.

Taxpayers who don’t owe taxes or don’t think they owe taxes should hang up immediately if they receive one of these calls or discard through other mediums. For individuals who owe taxes or think they do, they can call Treasury at 517-636-5265 to find out their account balance information.

Taxpayers with questions about state individual income taxes can use Michigan Treasury eService online or call 517-636-4486.

Individual income tax season updates

Taxpayers should also be aware of the following this tax season:

  • Michigan Treasury eServices enables taxpayers to file for free, check refunds, make payments, view records, and respond to Treasury letters.
  • Refunds typically take 4–6 weeks for e‑filed returns and 6–8 weeks for mailed returns.
  • Free tax preparation is available for eligible individuals through IRS-certified volunteers and other community programs. Look for local programs in your area.
  • Taxpayers in emergency areas in Southwest Michigan and Northern Michigan have additional time to file and pay state taxes, with penalties and interest waived for those who qualify. Relief must be requested directly from Treasury.

To date, Treasury has processed 2.6 million returns and issued $1.57 billion in refunds.

For more information about individual income tax season, go to Michigan.gov/IncomeTax.

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This email was sent to orionontv@gmail.com using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Michigan Department of Treasury · Lansing, MI 48922 · 517-335-7508

Storm aftermath: what to know before visiting trails, state parks

Storm aftermath: what to know before visiting trails, state parks

by | Mar 20, 2026 | News

 

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DNR News

Winter scene near Marquette

March 20, 2026
Contact: Greg Kinser, 989-390-0431

DNR urges caution on trails, in state parks following northern Michigan blizzard

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is advising outdoor enthusiasts in areas affected by this week’s blizzard to be cautious when planning visits to trails and state parks that may have been affected by the extreme winter weather.

“With record snowfall March 15-16 in the Upper Peninsula – some areas received more than 4 feet of snow – and snowy and icy conditions in the northern Lower Peninsula, we’re urging people to check conditions before traveling to storm-affected areas and to be aware of downed trees and branches, as well as bent or bowed trees and branches that may fall unexpectedly,” said Greg Kinser, Lower Peninsula trails coordinator for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division.

Local officials this week reported impassable, snow-covered roads and downed trees and power lines across the region. Power outages have also been reported, with several counties initially reporting the majority of residents without power.

“In addition to trail impacts, many state parks and recreation facilities across the U.P. and the northern Lower Peninsula were rendered inaccessible by the significant snowfall,” Kinser said. “State park staff are digging out, and it will take time before some park facilities are accessible again.”

Kinser also thanked trail partner groups for their prompt, professional assistance in helping to assess trail conditions.

About 260 miles of forest roads in the northeastern Lower Peninsula remain closed due to debris from extensive tree damage during the 2025 ice storm. Cleanup efforts are ongoing.

Know before you go

DNR staff continue to assess state-designated trails, state parks and facilities following the blizzard and snowstorm that led Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to declare a state of emergency Monday for seven counties in the Upper Peninsula and northern Michigan: Alcona, Alpena, Delta, Missaukee, Ogemaw, Roscommon and Wexford. The governor also declared a state of energy emergency for the entire state to ensure the speedy delivery of heating fuel to affected people.

In these state of emergency counties, and possibly in other areas affected by the storm, state park, road and trail access will be limited. Watch for downed trees and branches blocking trails and roads.

Find up-to-date closure details and safety alerts by visiting Michigan.gov/DNRClosures and searching “winter storm.”

Outdoor recreation reminders

  • Snowmobile trails may not be groomed, parking areas may not be plowed and road crossings may have unusually high snowbanks that reduce visibility. The official snowmobile grooming season ends annually on March 31.
  • When snowmobiling, make a plan, stay with a group and ride with caution, especially in ungroomed areas and at road crossings. Always Ride Right by riding sober, at a safe speed and on the right side of the trail.
  • Watch for damaged trees and hanging tree limbs that may fall unexpectedly.
  • Be aware of split trunks and debris tangled with power lines. If a tree or branch is, or even might be, touching a power line, stay far away and contact your local utility company. Even seemingly “dead” lines can be live. Likewise, never approach debris piles or trees that are entangled with wires.

Note to editors: An accompanying photo is available below for download. Caption information follows.

  • Winter storm: The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is advising outdoor enthusiasts in areas affected by this week’s blizzard to be cautious when planning trips to trails and state parks that may have been affected by the extreme winter weather.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to Michigan.gov/DNR.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Measles outbreak identified in Washtenaw County

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Measles outbreak identified in Washtenaw County

by | Mar 19, 2026 | News

 

 


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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 19, 2026

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, Sutfinl1@michigan.gov  

Measles outbreak identified in Washtenaw County
Public health officials urge families to ensure they are up to date
on all vaccines, including MMR, particularly if traveling over spring break  

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and Washtenaw County Health Department have confirmed a measles outbreak; defined as three or more related cases of measles. Three linked cases have been reported since March 12, all in Washtenaw County. 

At this time, there are no new public exposure sites to report in Michigan. As previously noted by Washtenaw County Health Department, the initial Michigan measles case was associated with travel to Florida. The additional cases linked to this outbreak demonstrate how quickly measles can spread among individuals who are not immune to the virus.    

Public health officials are urging families to ensure they are up to date on all vaccines, particularly if traveling, as more than 1,350 cases of measles have been recorded across 31 states during the first three months of 2026. 

“Measles cases are spreading like wildfire this year, and with families traveling over spring break the risk of exposure increases,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “In this case, what happens on spring break does not stay on spring break. Measles is incredibly transmissible and can easily travel home with us, infecting others in our schools and communities. The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine remains our best defense, and two doses of MMR offer 97% protection against measles. We urge all Michigan residents to check their vaccination records to ensure they are up to date with the MMR vaccine.”   

Vaccine uptake in Michigan has continued to drop over the past year, leaving more children and young adults vulnerable to this virus, which can cause hospitalization, brain swelling, pneumonia and even death. 

“Our team is working very hard to contain this outbreak as much as possible,” said Dr. Juan Luis Marquez, Washtenaw County Health Department medical director. “It saves valuable time and resources when people are fully protected through vaccination and allows us to focus where people may be vulnerable because they’re too young for vaccination, immunocompromised or pregnant.” 

Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease that spreads through direct person-to-person contact and through the air. Anyone who is not immune to measles is at risk. Measles symptoms usually appear seven to 14 days after contact with the virus but can take up to 21 days. Measles can be spread by an infected individual before they show symptoms.   

Common symptoms include:   

  • High fever (may spike to over 104˚F). 
  • Cough. 
  • Runny nose. 
  • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis). 
  • Tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums and roof of the mouth (Koplik Spots). 
  • A rash that starts as flat red spots on the face at the hairline, then spreads to the trunk, arms and legs three to five days after symptoms begin. Small, raised bumps may also appear on top of the flat red spots.  

Individuals who think they may have been exposed, or who develop symptoms, are urged to call their health care provider before seeking testing or treatment so steps can be taken to prevent exposure to other individuals. 

Vaccines are available at doctor’s offices, most pharmacies and local health departments. Children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program can receive no-cost vaccination at a provider enrolled in that program.  

It is possible that individuals vaccinated prior to 1968 received a less-effective version of the vaccine. Individuals vaccinated before 1989 may have only received one dose of the MMR vaccine and may be eligible for a second dose. If you fall into either of these categories, or if you are unsure whether you have ever received the MMR vaccine, contact your health care provider or local pharmacy to see if you are eligible for a dose of the vaccine. 

For more information on measles in Michigan, visit Michigan.gov/Measles.   

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