Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer recently announced the Michigan Maritime Strategy, a 10-year-plan designed to stimulate economic growth and create jobs.
The strategy has six goals for decision-making, policymaking and investment: modernize ports and invest in intermodal infrastructure, grow the maritime manufacturing economy, cultivate a thriving maritime innovation ecosystem, increase sustainability and resilience of recreation harbors and marinas, accelerate adoption of low- and zero-emission vessel technologies and fuels, and lead the nation in recruitment, training, and retention of the maritime work force.
The strategy also includes a plan for attracting new investment, fostering innovation, strengthening Michigan’s water-based economy and protecting the precious natural resources.
“The Michigan Maritime Strategy is a long-term plan for us to create good-paying local jobs and attract cutting-edge investments while protecting our Great Lakes, which contain 21 percent of the world’s fresh surface water,” Whitmer said. “Because of our unique natural resources, we have an incredible opportunity to harness them to grow our economy and an awesome responsibility to safeguard them for future generations of Michiganders. With this new strategy, we will do both, ensuring our waters remain a source of pride and prosperity for generations to come.”
Interested parties can review and comment on strategy through Feb. 27.