Lakeshore Advantage, the nonprofit economic development organization for Ottawa and Allegan counties along with the Greater Muskegon Economic Development are being honored for their work on a wastewater line. Daniel Boothe has the details.
"Officials say, the wastewater line will provide critical, stabilizing infrastructure to agribusinesses and food processors in Muskegon and Ottawa counties.
The two organizations worked together to secure approved funding from the State of Michigan for the expansion project, while the concept was introduced roughly fourteen years ago. Officials say, its construction represents one of the region’s largest and most important collaborative efforts; while earning the two organizations the MiBiz Deal of the Year Award for Economic Development.
“We are honored to receive this recognition and are thankful that after years of advocacy and collaboration this project is moving forward” said Lakeshore Advantage President, Jennifer Owens. “This is deeply impactful to this community and our important agribusiness sector companies. We’re grateful to MiBiz for putting a spotlight on the deal.”
The connection between the counties will come via a 30- inch wastewater line that will extend nearly 20 miles between the two facilities, allowing food producers to access unused capacity at the Muskegon County Resource Recovery Center. Dairy producers Fairlife, Applegate Dairy and Continental Dairy, will connect to the new line once construction is complete.
According to a press release, total private is estimated at $187 million, and the project is expected to create 145 new jobs over the next 3-5 years."