LANSING – State Representative Mike Lahti (D-Hancock) today hailed the news that Iron and Gogebic counties have received more than $2.8 million in federal grants for water system improvements and utility meter replacements that will create local jobs, enhance residents' quality of life and stimulate economic development.
"This is great news for these Upper Peninsula communities," Lahti said. "These projects will spur job creation and open the door for growth across our region by improving our infrastructure. These improvements will show job providers we're serious about making Michigan an attractive place to live, work, do business and raise a family."
The following areas received funding:
- Crystal Falls City in Iron County: $490,500 for electric utility meter replacement
- Hematite Township in Iron County: $330,550 for water system improvements
- Iron River City in Iron County: $750,000 for water system improvements
- Iron River Township in Iron County: $500,000 for water system improvements
- Wakefield City in Gogebic County: $745,000 for water system improvements
The grants are part of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Infrastructure Capacity Enhancement (ICE) program, which is designed to accelerate economic development and assist communities in making necessary improvements or upgrades to existing public infrastructure.
"Improvements such as these are a precursor to a strong economy," Lahti said. "Michigan can't afford to let more time go by without fixing the infrastructure that makes our state run. Delaying improvements only delays our economic recovery."