6/7/2024

UPPER MICHIGAN - A 10-year, multi-billion-dollar economic plan is now in consideration by the Michigan House of Representatives.  The House is currently considering a $6 billion economic plan that would be used over the span of 10 years. The Strategic Outreach and Attraction Reserve (SOAR) fund was originally intended to help fund substantial community projects and business incentives. The new proposal would extend that funding to allow for long-term planning such as housing and transportation.  InvestUP CEO Marty Fittante says the plan includes a lot that can benefit the U.P. including the Copperwood Project near Wakefield.  There is also $100 million for housing, $50 million for the wrap program, which is a community development piece, and $200 million a year for 10 years into transit.”  However, Rep. David Prestin, saying he’s against the economic plan saying if the plan passes, SOAR money would not be used for projects such as the Cooperwood Mine as those funds would be distributed to other infrastructural needs.  Prestin also said the U.P. would receive no money for transportation changes.