Great Lakes Wire

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has announced the allocation of two Transportation Economic Development Fund (TEDF) grants aimed at supporting 478 new jobs and facilitating $3.1 billion in private investment in Detroit and Grayling Township.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer stated, "Today's investments to fix the damn roads will support 478 good-paying jobs and more than $3 billion of investment in Detroit and Grayling." She emphasized the state's focus on economic growth, job creation, and positioning Michigan as a leader in key industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and defense.

The TEDF grants are designed to finance public highway, road, and street projects essential for the movement of people and goods. These projects aim to enhance transportation infrastructure critical for businesses and communities.

In Detroit, Henry Ford Health (HFH), in collaboration with the Detroit Pistons and Michigan State University (MSU), is spearheading a project named Future of Health: Detroit. This initiative involves an investment exceeding $3 billion across multiple sites near West Grand Boulevard. The development includes a new hospital facility, research center, housing units, retail spaces, and green areas. Jerry Darby from HFH expressed gratitude for MDOT's support: "This infrastructure will be critical as we look to connect our existing hospital with the new hospital facilities across West Grand Boulevard."

Road improvements on West Grand Boulevard are planned to accommodate increased traffic due to this development. The project also includes rebuilding the Holden Street pedestrian bridge to improve connectivity between medical sites separated by M-10.

Sam Krassenstein from the City of Detroit acknowledged MDOT's partnership: "The improvements to West Grand Boulevard and the Holden Street pedestrian bridge will undoubtedly improve access to the hospital."

In Grayling Township, Saab Inc., known for its global defense products, plans to establish a facility that requires road improvements on Industrial Drive. This project is expected to create around 70 jobs with a $75 million private investment. Brad Barnard from Saab highlighted the importance of infrastructure: "Strong roads and infrastructure surrounding our facility are integral to Saab establishing a world-class facility in Grayling."

Donald Babcock from Crawford County Road Commission noted that road upgrades would enable Saab's operations: "This results in the creation of 69 new full-time jobs." David Shane from Stoops Freightliner-Western Star also emphasized how improved roads would benefit commercial traffic: "Our customers...will be able to safely access our dealership."

Quentin L. Messer Jr., CEO of MEDC, expressed appreciation for collaborative efforts leading to these developments: "Today's grant reflects Team Michigan's commitment...as we welcome an investment by Saab Inc."

The TEDF grants provide funding for roadway improvements necessary for expanding companies while removing inadequate roadways as barriers to private investment.