Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced a $5.5 million investment in Upper Peninsula Projects, including Northern Hardwoods, which will use the funds to install a new biomass boiler and a back-pressure steam turbine at their facility in Atlantic Mine. (Photo courtesy of Northern Hardwoods)
LANSING — Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) have unveiled business investment and community revitalization projects in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, amounting to over $5.5 million. This investment aims to protect 85 high-paying jobs in the region.
“Today’s projects will drive more than $5.5 million of investment and protect 85 good-paying jobs in Houghton and Schoolcraft counties,” said Gov. Whitmer, emphasizing the economic development strategy to enhance economic growth, create affordable housing, and build on Michigan’s reputation as an ideal place to live and work.
“We applaud the commitments from Northern Hardwoods and Cedar Street Real Estate,” said MEDC Senior Vice President Matt McCauley, highlighting support for business development and community revitalization in the U.P.
Northern Hardwoods Lumber plans a significant upgrade with a new biomass boiler and steam turbine at their Atlantic Mine facility in Houghton County. This project will reduce operating costs and emissions, ensuring a more sustainable process. The investment is crucial for retaining 85 jobs, preventing potential closure after the current boiler’s lifecycle ends.
The company anticipates $4,750,000 in capital investment, supported by a $250,000 Michigan Business Development Program grant. Additionally, Northern Hardwoods received a $1,000,000 Wood Innovations Grant from the USDA, aiding in job retention with average wages of $23.76 per hour.
This investment underlines Michigan’s competitive edge in creating and protecting valuable jobs, aligning with state and federal climate action plans like the MI Healthy Climate Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act.
“Northern Hardwoods continues its tradition of providing good-paying jobs through sustainable timber processing,” said Jeff Ratcliffe of the Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance. “We are proud to support their investment and appreciate MEDC’s financial backing.”
JM Longyear, Northern Hardwoods’ parent company, acquired the sawmill in 2015. Originally built in 1969, it produces 20 million board feet annually from Michigan’s hardwood forests.
“We are grateful for MEDC’s support,” said Cody Meier of JM Longyear. “The new biomass boiler and turbine will help us sustain operations and utilize the Upper Peninsula’s renewable resources.”
