There's no doubt that former industrial sites aren't often the cleanest, but times have been changing and companies are being held responsible for the cleanup at those sites that has to be done.
Recently,
Motors Liquidation Company, formerly known as General Motors, announced it had reached an agreement with the U.S. Government for cleanup and redevelopment of 56 auto properties in Michigan, in addition to locations in other states and with one tribe.
The total cost of the project will be more than $641 million, which will be used to return contaminated properties back to productive use.
"Today marks another important step in Michigan's economic recovery," says Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm. "Cleaning up these former GM sites will allow new companies a greater opportunity to invest in Michigan and create jobs I commend the Obama administration and Michigan's economic development team for their work to bring this process to a close, and urge that the court proceedings move as quickly as possible."
Mid Michigan is the recipient of money for two cities: Saginaw and Bay City. A total of $17.8 million will be used for five former GM sites in Saginaw, while Bay City will be the recipient of $3.5 million for one site.
Other areas receiving funds for restoration include Burton, Detroit, Flint, Grand Blanc, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Livonia, Pontiac, Romulus, Van Buren and Ypsilanti.
Granholm notes that redevelopment of currently unused manufacturing sites could be ideal for clean energy companies looking to take advantage of Michigan's significant tax incentives and skilled workforce.
"Existing manufacturing infrastructure, a well-trained workforce and unbeatable incentives have already led to billions of dollars of investment in Michigan by advanced battery, wind, and solar manufacturers," says Granholm. "The additional sites that will become available to new investors as a result of the environmental cleanup will continue to help Michigan diversify its economy and create new jobs for the 21st century."
Writer: Sam EgglestonSource: Gov. Jennifer Granholm, State of Michigan
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