LANSING, Mich.– In a notable development for Muskegon County, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that the Michigan Strategic Fund Board (MSF) has approved an initiative to enhance wastewater infrastructure. This move is set to support Chobani’s substantial investment in expanding La Colombe’s Norton Shores facility. The project is projected to create 337 new jobs, retain 312 existing ones, and inject up to $567 million into the local economy.
“Companies know that they succeed when they invest in Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. “I want to thank Chobani for working with us to create 337 good-paying jobs and invest $567 million here in Michigan’s local economy. It shows the world that Michigan is the best place to grow stuff and build a thriving agricultural economy.”
Chobani’s Founder and CEO, Hamdi Ulukaya, expressed gratitude for the community’s support, stating, “La Colombe has been making ready-to-drink lattes in Norton Shores for more than a decade, and from day one this community has welcomed us with open arms. For us, growth is about more than numbers—it’s about supporting the community, creating opportunity, and building something that lasts.”
According to Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and chair of the MSF Board, “Today’s actions by the Strategic Fund Board demonstrate Team Michigan’s sustained commitment to enhancing all of Michigan’s economic sectors so that more people and businesses can ‘Make It’ in Michigan.”
Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director Tim Boring emphasized the project’s importance, stating, “This wastewater project will have a direct impact on the region’s value-added processing and reinforces our mission at the state of improving quality of life for Michiganders.”
In addition to the Norton Shores project, the MSF Board approved a request in City of Coopersville (Ottawa County) to upgrade its regional water system and an expansion by fairlife, LLC, along with a Michigan Community Revitalization Loan for 109 apartments in Grand Rapids.
Muskegon County Receives $28 Million for Wastewater System Improvements
Muskegon County has been granted $28 million in Strategic Site Readiness Funds to modernize its aging wastewater system, serving Norton Shores, Muskegon Heights, Fruitport, and the City of Muskegon. The total project cost is estimated at $64.5 million.
The project will unfold in three phases: increasing sewer capacity, rehabilitating an old sewer drain, and addressing capacity issues in the force main of the sewer system.
The upgrades are crucial due to the current system’s age and capacity limitations. These improvements will support future regional growth, including population and housing development.
“Muskegon County recognizes the wastewater infrastructure investment as a crucial enhancement that not only improves system reliability but also eliminates significant obstacles to economic progress,” said Mark Eisenbarth, Muskegon County Administrator. “By attracting new businesses and nurturing a strong public-private partnership, Muskegon County is reinforcing an integrated infrastructure network.”
La Colombe Expansion: Chobani’s $567M Investment in Norton Shores
Chobani has secured approval for a $5 million Michigan Business Development Program grant, facilitating the creation of 337 new jobs and retention of 312 existing ones in Norton Shores. The $567 million investment will expand La Colombe’s coffee manufacturing facility to meet growing demand for its Draft Latte coffee products.
The expansion will occur in three phases, enhancing coffee manufacturing capabilities in Michigan. It will also have a significant impact on the agricultural industry by increasing the purchase of Michigan-sourced milk.
Chobani’s investment is expected to boost economic activity across Michigan’s supply chain, impacting sectors such as fruit, packaging, logistics, and transportation.
“The impact that this investment will have on the City of Norton Shores is monumental,” said Gary Nelund, Mayor of the City of Norton Shores. “The leadership at La Colombe/Chobani has shown through this entire process how much it cares for its employees, its products, and the community.”
Trevor Friedeberg, President and CEO of Greater Muskegon Economic Development, noted, “An expansion of this magnitude demonstrates that Muskegon County competes, and wins, on a national stage. Its decision to invest here speaks volumes about the strength of our workforce and our shared commitment to long-term growth.”
NOTE FROM THE MEDC: Investment and job numbers represent the commitment made by the business to the state of Michigan. Terms will be formalized in a performance-based project agreement, with funds disbursed as reimbursement based on eligible expenditures, and are subject to amendment or cancellation if the commitments are not met due to risks or uncertainties. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation provides a public annual report on agreements and their status to the state legislature.
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