Compete to Succeed 17
Policy principles to support a competitive manufacturing sector . Michigan must :
■ Utilize the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline to ensure critical energy resources are available to Michigan manufacturers and citizens .
■ Expand broadband capabilities to Michigan ’ s northern lower and upper peninsulas to provide high speed communications and data transmission for small and medium-sized manufacturers .
■ Secure federal and state funds to rebuild and replace key infrastructure facilities throughout the state .
■ Support a strong and vibrant freight railroad network as critical infrastructure in the manufacturing supply chain and the delivery of finished goods across North America and the globe .
■ Stand with coalition supporting a local rail / road grade separation program in congested areas to help keep raw materials , fuels and finished goods moving to increase the speed of the Michigan economy .
■ Ensure Michigan ’ s natural resources and raw materials remain a source of economic growth .
■ Make Michigan a leading producer of critical minerals in the country and world for decarbonization and EV production through an efficient and fair permitting process .
Specific Actions for Leaders :
■ Support the plan for the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline to ensure these critical energy resources are available to manufacturers and citizens for the state of Michigan .
■ Work with legislative leaders on efforts to preserve and strengthen Michigan ’ s mining and natural resource industries and integrate these industries into the mobility space .
■ Support legislative efforts to modernize and update Michigan ’ s aggregate mining statute and streamline the process for challenging non-ferrous metallic mineral mining permits .
■ Appropriate funds and encourage federal action for critical infrastructure for transportation of raw materials , food products and finished goods into and out of Michigan .
■ Support responsible efforts to expand broadband capabilities to increase the competitiveness of small and mediumsized manufacturers in rural areas .
■ Support efforts to move our building materials into more sustainable products i . e ., green materials .
100 % of Michigan-Mined Iron Ore Passes through the Soo Locks Annually
$ 500.4 billion worth of iron ore is shipped through the Locks each year .
~ 80 million tons of cargo moves through the Locks each year .
Source : Michigan Department of Transportation mimfg . org