MDOT Allocates $634K for Durand Industrial Road to Boost Local Economy

In a significant move aimed at bolstering economic development in Michigan, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) granted $634,330 through its Transportation Economic Development Fund (TEDF) on July 22, 2026, to the City of Durand. This funding is specifically allocated to facilitate the construction of a new industrial road that supports the expansion of GES Recycling's facility in the area. The impact of this project extends beyond just infrastructure improvement; it is anticipated to create and sustain 16 jobs, thereby enhancing workforce stability and supporting economic resilience within the local community.

The TEDF grant underscores the critical role that transportation infrastructure plays in fostering private investment and economic growth. With a total project cost estimated at $800,900, the TEDF grant represents 80 percent of the financing needed for this vital roadwork. As stated by the Shiawassee Economic Development Partnership President and CEO, Justin Horvath, "The growth of their metals processing business will not only help strengthen our state’s manufacturing supply chain but also create a significant boost in the local economy." The new industrial road is not just crucial for the operations of GES Recycling, which specializes in scrap metal processing, primarily serving the automotive sector, but also opens doors for further investment opportunities in the region.

The City of Durand is on track to construct an approximately 0.3-mile access road off Durand Road, designed to include gravel shoulders and culvert installations to manage water drainage effectively. This infrastructure upgrade is essential for GES Recycling’s decision to enhance its Michigan operations. Prior to securing this grant, the company had considered relocating to another state due to inadequate industrial road access, demonstrating the significance of MDOT's intervention in retaining local businesses. The TEDF's investment in public infrastructure is not merely a financial contribution; it acts as an enabler for businesses to flourish successfully.

The collaborative effort involving state agencies, local authorities, and private businesses reflects a robust model for economic development. By aligning state-level economic strategies with local needs, Michigan is setting an example for other regions looking to stimulate economic growth through strategic investments in infrastructure. As Cameron Horvath, the City Manager of Durand, elaborated, “The City of Durand is excited to partner with MDOT to further the development of our industrial park.” This sentiment captures the unity between public sector initiatives and private sector expansions that are becoming increasingly vital in the modern economic landscape.

In a broader context, the TEDF grants, which date back to their inception in 1987, are crucial in financing road projects that cater specifically to targeted industries, such as manufacturing and recycling. The initiative strives to boost public-private partnerships that significantly drive job creation and strengthen local economies across Michigan. As industries continue to seek locations that offer the necessary infrastructure to support growth, projects like the one in Durand underscore the importance of government investment in foundational services that support economic progress.

The project will ultimately not only enhance the operational capabilities of GES Recycling but also significantly contribute to personal and economic viability within the community, marking a step forward in improving infrastructures essential for sustaining industrial operations. Procurement professionals with an eye on Michigan-based contracts should take note of these developments as pivotal opportunities arise for contractors specializing in infrastructure construction and related services.