LANSING, Mich., Feb. 3, 2026 — Last week, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced the Michigan Maritime Strategy, a ten-year plan aimed at harnessing the power of Michigan’s multi-billion dollar maritime industry. Michigan’s ports support roughly 17,000 jobs and contribute $3.3 billion each year to the economy on top of the nearly $15 billion and 45,000 jobs from Michigan’s water tourism industry.

“The Michigan Maritime Strategy is a tremendous opportunity for lakeshore communities,” said state Rep. Joey Andrews (D-St. Joseph). “Michigan’s Great Lakes are among our most valuable natural assets and protecting them while managing them responsibly is critical to our state’s long-term success. St. Joseph is home to one of Michigan’s few deep-water ports, a vital part of our maritime economy. This strategy will help ensure it remains strong, competitive, and sustainable.”

The strategy centers on six goals for decision-making, policymaking and investment: 

  • Modernize ports and invest in intermodal infrastructure. 
  • Grow Michigan’s maritime manufacturing economy. 
  • Accelerate adoption of low- and zero-emission vessel technologies and fuels. 
  • Lead the nation in recruitment, training and retention of the maritime workforce. 
  • Cultivate a thriving maritime innovation ecosystem. 
  • Increase sustainability and resilience of recreation harbors and marinas.

 

“Muskegon is home to the deepest shipping port on the eastern side of Lake Michigan, proving to be an essential part of Michigan’s maritime economy,” said state Rep. Will Snyder (D-Muskegon). “Our community has a long history as a working-class city, and we are proud to be a key shipping hub in the Great Lakes. This announcement means a lot for Muskegon; it means that the state government is investing in the future of this community and the hard-working people who live here.”

Developing the Michigan Maritime Strategy was not undertaken alone. The result is the culmination of the combined efforts of more than 200 participants from government, business, academia and the communities themselves. All participants were and are invested in the sustained growth of Michigan’s maritime industry and the communities that allow Michigan to not just stay afloat, but charge on, full steam ahead.

“Michigan’s lakeshore towns contribute enormously to our state’s economy and identity, and investing in their future ensures generations can thrive,” Andrews added. “By modernizing infrastructure, expanding maritime manufacturing, adopting clean and sustainable technologies, and creating long-term career pathways, we are supporting tens of thousands of livelihoods, empowering working families and communities across Michigan.”

“Balancing economic growth with environmental protection is necessary for sustainable success in our communities,” Snyder added. “I know that Muskegon will continue its long tradition of dedication to Michigan’s maritime economy, and the Michigan Maritime Strategy will go a long way in supporting all of our shoreline communities for years to come.”

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