Governor Whitmer Announces $31M Investment, 126 New Jobs in Michigan

Michigan’s Economy Boosted by Major Business Expansions

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan is set to benefit from substantial economic growth as Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced two major business expansions in Wayne and Charlevoix Counties, promising over $31.2 million in investments and the creation of at least 126 new jobs.

Governor Whitmer expressed optimism about Michigan’s business climate, stating, “In every corner of our state, people and businesses are choosing Michigan to grow and thrive.” She highlighted that these developments would further establish Michigan as a leader in advanced manufacturing, particularly in energy infrastructure and boating.

Matt McCauley, Senior Vice President of Regional Development at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), praised the commitment of Ricardo, LLC and LM Marine Services, noting their contributions to regional growth and job creation across the state.

Ricardo, LLC Expansion in Wayne County

Ricardo, a global engineering firm, plans to enhance its Van Buren Township facility with a new manufacturing line. This initiative, valued at $24.1 million, is supported by an $855,000 grant from the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) and is projected to create 114 new jobs with competitive wages.

Jason Oms O’Donnell, CEO of Ricardo, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion in metropolitan Detroit, a region known for its automotive heritage. “We’re delighted to be growing our footprint in metropolitan Detroit, a region with a long, proud history of automotive technology,” he said.

This project is expected to position Michigan prominently in the high-performance specialty engine manufacturing sector.

State Rep. Reggie Miller and Kevin McNamara, Supervisor of Van Buren Township, both emphasized the positive impact of Ricardo’s expansion on the local economy and workforce.

LM Marine Services’ New Venture in Charlevoix

LM Marine Services, operating as Lake Michigan Yacht Sales Charlevoix, is set to expand its operations significantly. The company acquired a 33,000-square-foot building and plans further construction, resulting in a $7.15 million investment and the creation of 12 jobs, supported by a $150,000 MSF grant.

Matt Mrozinski, President of Lake Michigan Yacht Sales, acknowledged the crucial role of the MEDC and local partners in facilitating the project. “We are thrilled to be moving forward with this project that will directly benefit our Northern Michigan customers,” he remarked.

Local leaders, including Jessica Willis of Northwest Michigan Works! and Payton Heins of Northern Lakes Economic Alliance, highlighted the potential for significant economic and community benefits from this expansion.

LM Marine Services’ parent company, Onekama Marine Inc., boasts a long-standing reputation for excellence in boat servicing since 1963. The expansion aligns with their ongoing growth strategy in Northern Michigan.

Note: Investment and job figures represent business commitments to Michigan, subject to formal project agreements and potential amendments.