LANSING, Mich., Sept. 23, 2021 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed a budget that includes historic investments in the economy, child care and infrastructure. 

“This bipartisan budget is a victory for working families and a victory for our U.P. communities,” said state Rep. Sara Cambensy (D-Marquette). “I am grateful that my top three district projects were also funded in the budget, totaling $9.4 million. I couldn’t get this done without the support of state Sen. Wayne Schmidt (R-Traverse City), who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Marty Fitantti from Invest U.P., my U.P. legislative colleagues and House Appropriation Chairman, Thomas Albert (R-Lowell). When we stick together and work together, our constituents win.” 

The three special projects included in the $9.4 million appropriation as enhancement grants include $250,000 for a new high-tech projector at the Shiras Planetarium that is part of the Marquette Area Public Schools, $6 million to upgrade infrastructure on County Road 407 in Luce County, paving the road from Deer Park to the Alger County line near Grand Marais, and $3.15 million for the new Beacon House in Marquette. 

The $6 million project for Luce County was the third-largest enhancement grant awarded in this year’s budget and one of the largest grant amounts a Democrat secured in the minority party out of 175 total. 

“Imagine what Washington could get done if both parties worked together more, like we do in Michigan,” Cambensy said. “When I listen to my constituents and what they want to see me do and what they expect from me, it’s to get stuff done. It’s to work with everyone. It’s bipartisanship in every shape and form. We accomplished  that in this budget, and I’m proud of the wins the U.P. delegation brought home for the people we represent.”