CLICK TO HEAR JACK HALL’S INTERVIEW WITH MARTY FITTANTE, INVEST UP
InvestUP and community leaders across the Western Upper Peninsula today reaffirmed their commitment to the Copperwood Mine project after the recently approved state budget did not include the requested $50 million public infrastructure investment for Wakefield Township.
“Despite the $50 million not making the final cut of the new budget, overall support for the mine project is gaining momentum,” said Senator Ed McBroom. “Local, state and national buy-in is growing as the environmental safeguards and economic benefits are better understood by those who give the project a fair and serious hearing. When completed, Copperwood will have a tremendous positive impact on our U.P. workforce and will generate millions of dollars annually for state and local revenue.”
The funding request was designed to improve roads, power and telecommunications for vital industries such as mining, timber, and tourism, with the goal of creating good-paying jobs and attracting economic development opportunities to an economically disadvantaged region.
“This project is about building a future where our kids and grandkids can live and work right here at home,” said Mandy Lake, Wakefield Township supervisor. “Yes, we’re disappointed that the state budget didn’t include funding this year, but we’re not slowing down. The people of this community believe in this project and deserve lasting change. That’s what keeps us moving.”
Leaders emphasized that the people of the Upper Peninsula are among the most resilient in Michigan and that spirit will carry the project forward with strong local, state and federal support.
“The only thing certain about life in the Upper Peninsula is adversity. That adversity unites us and galvanizes us as a people,” said Rep. Prestin, R-Cedar River. “The road has been challenging so far, but we have built extraordinary levels of support in Lansing. The people of the Upper Peninsula have been clear that they support the critical infrastructure developments that will create more jobs in the U.P.’s largest industries. Our voice will continue to be heard, and through determination and resilience, we will succeed.”
The funding gap only proves the importance of smart investment in the region. The Western U.P. has faced decades of challenges, from industry and hospital closures to shrinking school populations and deteriorating infrastructure, which have made it difficult to retain workers and attract new families. The Copperwood Project continues to represent a rare opportunity to reverse those trends and allow the region to compete in the 21st-century economy.
“The western U.P. is a place that thrives on hard work and determination,” said Marty Fittante, CEO of InvestUP. “We know economic development projects, such as Copperwood, bring good-paying jobs, keep and attract families to the region and respect the environment that makes this area home. We hit a bump in the road with this year’s budget, but the determination I’ve seen from local leaders, residents and our partners tells me we’re just getting started. Wakefield Township and the Western UP will remain resilient and soon rise. It’s SISU!”
Twenty-one units of government, ranging from townships to county boards, have issued multiple resolutions of support, nearly ten local institutions have submitted letters of support and dozens of community leaders and elected officials have spoken publicly in support of the Wakefield Township grant and the Copperwood Project.
“Copperwood is a chance to secure a future for Gogebic County that our families can build on,” said Dan Siirila, chairman of the Gogebic County Board of Commissioners. “Our residents are strong and they’ve shown time and again that challenges don’t stop them. We’re going to keep working until this project is complete because we know how much it matters.”
The Copperwood project is one of very few fully permitted greenfield copper mines in the United States and meets the strict environmental standards established by the State of Michigan. Michigan’s mining laws, passed with the support of environmental advocacy groups, are regarded as the most stringent mining regulations in the nation. Copperwood is not permitted to mine under Porcupine State Park or draw from Lake Superior. It has been rigorously designed to protect against any leakage into Lake Superior and nearby waterways. The project demonstrates that economic growth and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.
“We’re grateful to the state for considering the Wakefield Township grant and we appreciate the support we’ve already received,” said Barry O’Shea, CEO of Highland Copper. “While we are disappointed that funding wasn’t included in this year’s budget, our confidence is unwavering. Just last month, the U.S. Export-Import Bank issued a letter of interest for up to $250 million in potential financing, a major signal of federal backing. Highland Copper remains ready to deliver economic opportunity and a model for responsible mining and is committed to moving Copperwood forward safely and successfully, for this community and for generations to come.”
To learn more about the Copperwood Project, please visit www.copperwoodproject.com.
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