Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
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January 19, 2022
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 19, 2022
Contact: press@michigan.gov
Governor Whitmer Statement on $479 Million Investment to Fully Fund Soo Locks
Investment made possible by Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, could speed up project timeline by two years
LANSING, Mich.-Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued the following statement after the US Army Corps of Engineers announced that they will invest $479 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to fully fund the Soo Locks in the UP.
"I applaud the US Army Corps of Engineers for making a $479 million investment in the Soo Locks to finish the project, protecting tens of thousands of jobs and uplifting our economy. The locks are critical to facilitating trade and economic cooperation between our two peninsulas and Great Lakes neighbors. Our federal partners are also bolstering critical Michigan harbors, further shoring up our waterways and enabling businesses to trade goods and supplies more easily. I am grateful to our congressional delegation for fighting for this investment. Together, we will continue finding ways to grow Michigan's economy, create and protect good-paying jobs, and invest in every region of our great state."
The Soo Locks are a crucial gateway for Great Lakes freighters carrying agricultural products and materials our manufacturers and military depend on. The new lock will mean there is a modern lock to handle larger vessels?and?will prevent?failure of the locks, which?would?have devastating consequences?for the economy and national security. Senators?Stabenow and Peters have led the effort for years to secure enough funding to complete this new lock-$1.3 billion in total. To learn more about?the progress on?the?Soo?Locks?modernization project,?click here.
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