State Rep. Donni Steele, chair of the House Subcommittee on State and Local Transportation, highlighted the importance of Michigan’s maritime industry and port infrastructure during last week’s committee meeting.

The subcommittee received presentations on Michigan’s Maritime and Port Facility Assistance programs, with testimony from transportation officials, maritime experts, and industry leaders discussing opportunities to strengthen shipping infrastructure, supply chains, and economic growth across the state.

“Today’s testimony made clear that Michigan has significant untapped potential when it comes to maritime commerce and port development,” said Steele (Orion Township). “Strategic investments in our ports and shipping infrastructure can strengthen supply chains, support jobs, and help position Michigan for long-term economic growth.”

Steele noted that the House FY 2027 Transportation budget includes $22 million in maritime and port funding initiatives that she helped secure and is urging the Senate and Governor to support as budget negotiations continue.

“We cannot afford to overlook the economic opportunities connected to the Great Lakes,” Steele said. “We have over 300 miles of shoreline and this funding will help improve infrastructure, support commerce, and strengthen Michigan’s position as a leader in Great Lakes shipping and maritime industry.”

Testimony before the subcommittee included presentations from:

• Elisha Wulff, Freight Policy Specialist with the Michigan Department of Transportation
• Thomas McKenney, associate professor of naval architecture and marine engineering at the University of Michigan
• Paul LaMarre III, Port Director for the Port of Monroe
• Jared Stull, vice president of supply chain for Amrize
• Adam Cimaroli, senior terminal operations director for Amrize

Steele said the hearing continued broader conversations taking place in Lansing regarding Michigan’s role in Great Lakes shipping, maritime workforce development, and port modernization.

“There is growing recognition that Michigan needs to be more proactive about supporting maritime infrastructure and industry,” Steele said. “The Great Lakes are one of our greatest economic assets, and we should be positioning Michigan to fully capitalize on those opportunities.”

Representative Steele’s funding plan aligns with federal shipbuilding and harbor development initiatives, as well as Governor Whitmer’s Michigan Maritime Strategy, which focuses on modernizing infrastructure and strengthening Michigan’s economy.