Efforts to grow Downriver’s local economy through small businesses led to an increase of just $1.6 million.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Tuesday an Office of Economic Development grant to support an economic recovery implementation project for the Downriver Riverfront community.
The grant will help the Downriver community redevelop two coal-fired power plant sites and establish new programs to support local small businesses, the governor said.
“I am grateful for this partnership with the Department of Economic Development and will work with anyone to grow Michigan’s economy, create high-paying jobs, and invest in every part of our great state. “In addition to this grant, we will continue to invest to ensure that workers are not left behind during the economic transition we face.”
The news elicited a reaction from US Congressman Debbie Dingell (District D-12).
She emphasized that global climate change is real and affects communities in many ways.
Dingel said that as communities move to cleaner energy sources, everyone should pay attention to the impact on places that have historically relied on the coal economy.
“Looking to the future, we want to safely clean and rehabilitate our current factory site to protect the environment and residents, while diversifying local businesses to maintain a strong economic base,” Dingel said. rice field. “This funding will help support these efforts, and the work of the Downriver Community Conference will have a positive impact on our local economies and quality of life. It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors, and this grant helps us protect and enhance them.”
State Rep. Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton) considers the grant a “huge win” for all Downriver communities.
He has made historic investments that will help redevelop multiple waterfront sites, work towards a more sustainable economy, strengthen small business communities, and ultimately create more local jobs. said it was.
“We are proud to work with the Downriver Community Conference and Economic Development Authority to leverage our beautiful waterfront and reimagine the future of Downriver,” said Camilleri.
legislator
(D-Allen Park) expects what he calls “special opportunities” to materialize from the grants in affected communities, focusing on new jobs, new expansions and new industries.
“While many coal communities are recovering from the economic fallout of the pandemic, the Downriver Community Conference has given us the opportunity to strengthen our solid foundations and diversify our local economy,” Liberati said.
He said the grants will help turn outdated locations into new and vibrant business opportunities now that communities are moving away from coal as an energy source.
“These funds will help us provide a better future for us and our communities,” said Liberati. “I couldn’t be more grateful.”
The grant is funded by EDA’s $300 million Coal Communities Commitment.