LANSING – State Representative Gary McDowell (D-Rudyard) voted on Tuesday to award $1.2 million in federal stimulus dollars to upgrade the St. Marys River ferry dock system to accommodate more, larger vessels.
"When we invest in our infrastructure, we also are investing in both our local and state economy," McDowell said. "Our residents deserve the good-paying jobs these projects will create. In order for us to continue attracting investments to Northern Michigan and the U.P., we must have well-maintained access to our roads and waterways."
The $1.2 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will fund three projects. The pier at Drummond Island will be lengthened to accommodate larger vessels; docks at Neebish Island and Barbeau will be modified to accommodate multiple vessels; and deteriorating dock pilings at Sault Ste. Marie will be replaced.