Infrastructure
Challenge
For the past 30 years, securing funding for repairs and construction of the Soo Locks has been a top priority for many in Michigan.
Approach
In order to secure funding, Acuitas supported our client’s efforts to engage former Governor Rick Snyder, and members of the Michigan legislature. This led to the issue eventually gaining the attention of President Trump who in April 2018, brought up the Soo Locks at a rally in Michigan which led him to the sign America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018 in October.
Results
The Detroit District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced initial funding will go towards the Soo Locks as part of the fiscal year 2019 plan. These funds will allow for repairs on the existing Soo Locks and the construction of a new lock that will be the size of the existing Poe Lock. Additionally, Acuitas supported efforts to include an appropriation in Michigan’s FY ’19 supplemental budget to add $52 Million to the project.
This will have a major impact throughout Michigan, specifically helping Northern Michigan’s economy move forward