Monroe County BDC held its fifth annual fall event entitled "Focus on the Future" September 29. The key note speaker talked about plans for the new Gordie Howe International Bridge.
The event was held at DTE Energy's Monroe Power Plant and was attended by 67 leaders and manufacturing business heads.
Andrew S. Doctoroff, special projects advisor to Gov. Rick Snyder shared that half of the 673 parcels of property needed in Detroit have been acquired. Commercial vehicle transportation is expected to increase 128 percent, and with that ... old and new businesses are sure to reap benefits.
The completion of the bridge is anticipated in 2020. Mr. Doctoroff mentioned that Canada is financing 100 percent of the project. He also said, “I think the bridge is going to be amazing,” and “It’s going to be a symbol of something very significant.”
Aaron Domini, senior planner and partner with OHM Advisors, spoke about his work with the committee preparing a strategic redevelopment plan for the I-75 corridor that details economic opportunities around the Monroe County area. “It is a pretty important corridor. Outsiders coming through don’t know it’s here.” Mr. Domini spoke about how much Monroe County has to offer.
Steven Hoft, Manager of Natural Gas Analytics, DTE's Gas Storage & Pipelines, gave an update on the Nexus Pipeline which will link the Appalachian Region in Ohio to Michigan and beyond. The $2.1 billion project is being funded by DTE Energy and Spectra Energy. It covers 255 miles and more than 6 miles of that will run through Monroe County.
Mr. Hohf said that this project will create 150 jobs in Monroe County and provide $10 million in labor income. It is expected to be completed in 2017.
Joe Bellino and Dr. Kojo Quartey from Monroe County Community College took the stage and presented to Baker's Gas & Welding Supplies, Inc. the MCCC Business & Industry Supporter of the Year award.
We wanted to thank of our guests for attending and hope all left with a bit of information to make them feel good about Monroe County and its future! Special thanks to our speakers and sponsors ... DTE Energy and Nexus Gas Transmission!
