National Gypsum operates a quarry and wallboard plant in Iosco County's Grant and Sherman townships, employing 57 workers between the two facilities. The Whittemore Road Bridge has been downgraded over time from its original 60t weight limit to its current 28t limit. This has forced the company to reduce loads or seek longer alternative routes, making the facilities less competitive. The company has indicated that if the bridge is not repaired or replaced it is likely the two facilities would be closed, resulting in the loss of 57 jobs.
The transportation economic development grant will help preserve 57 jobs in Iosco County by aiding in the replacement of the Whittemore Road Bridge over the East Branch of the Au Gres River.
The Iosco County Road Commission will rebuild the Whittemore Road bridge and approaches to enable continued access and use by full trucks. The total cost of the project is $1,366,300, including $1,090,991 in TEDF funding and $275,309 in matching funds.
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