State Sen. Jon Bumstead welcomed on Mar. 24 the Michigan Strategic Fund’s approval of state support for a wastewater system upgrade and a major business investment in Muskegon County.
The announcement is significant for residents and businesses in West Michigan, as it addresses long-standing infrastructure needs while also supporting economic growth through job creation.
The Michigan Strategic Fund board approved a $28 million grant from the Strategic Site Readiness Program to help the city of Norton Shores and Muskegon County repair and modernize their wastewater system, which has served several communities for over five decades. The total cost of the project is estimated at about $64.5 million. “I am very excited about this vital infrastructure project and the opportunities it will bring the people of West Michigan,” Bumstead said. “This is the type of long-term investments we should be making to enhance our communities, energize our economy and improve the lives of Michigan families.”
In addition to infrastructure improvements, Chobani’s subsidiary LCT Opco LLC received approval for a $5 million performance-based grant under the Michigan Business Development Program to expand its La Colombe coffee manufacturing facility in Norton Shores. This expansion aims to meet growing demand for ready-to-drink Draft Latte coffee products, with expectations to create 337 new jobs while retaining 312 existing positions.
“Chobani’s plan to invest $567 million in West Michigan shows a tremendous commitment to our region and is great news for local farmers and workers throughout our state,” Bumstead said. “I applaud Chobani, state officials and local leaders for their work to make this opportunity a reality.”
These projects are seen as steps toward strengthening both local infrastructure resilience and employment opportunities in Muskegon County.
