BARAGA COUNTY, Mich., Sept. 19, 2023 — State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) presented an honorary check for over $3 million to the Baraga County road commissioners and manager on Friday. The check recognizes the funding Hill was able to secure in the Make it in Michigan budget signed into law over the summer.
“I’m extremely pleased with the funding we secured in this year’s budget, and I am particularly proud of the funding secured for the new transportation maintenance facility in Baraga County,” Hill said. “I worked tirelessly with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make sure the U.P. had a seat at the table. With this $3 million investment for Baraga County, increased funding for transportation for rural schools, funding for housing and mental health services, and support for several other U.P.-specific projects, our region is positioned to thrive in the years to come thanks to our investments.”
The budget includes several items that will specifically benefit the communities of the 109th House District, which Hill represents. Notable highlights include:
- $3 million for the restoration of the Vista Theatre in Negaunee.
- $1.8 million for the Republic Township dam and fish passage project.
- $300,000 to extend the Iron Ore Heritage Trail into Lakenenland.
- $150,000 to Chocolay Township for the purchase of firefighting equipment.
Other notable investments in the U.P. include:
- $7.3 million for the Helen Newberry Joy Hospital.
- $870,000 for Michigan Tech to maintain the nursing education program for the former Finlandia University.
- $200 million debt payment in the higher education retirement system.
- $1.2 million for the Off-Road Vehicle Trail Improvement Fund to repair the flooded Lake Linden Trail in Houghton County.
- $2.7 million for the Snowmobile Trail Improvement Fund to repair the flooded Lake Linden Trail in Houghton County ($800,000), for local grants to purchase snow groomers ($1.5 million) and for snowmobile trail system maintenance ($400,000).