Port Huron, Michigan, January 30, 2026
Port Huron Paper Company is set to invest $24.5 million in revitalizing its facilities, creating 82 jobs with competitive wages. This initiative, supported by a $1 million state grant, aims to enhance the local economy and restart papermaking at the former Domtar site.
Port Huron, Michigan
Port Huron Paper Company is making a significant move to boost the local economy with a $24.5 million investment aimed at revitalizing its industrial space. This initiative will create 82 new jobs, marking a noteworthy revival of a long-standing industry in Port Huron. The project involves the renovation of nine buildings for warehousing and papermaking, signaling a commitment to bringing back experienced local talent and catering to the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
The support for this endeavor comes in the form of a $1 million state grant dedicated to upgrading machinery and assisting in the renovations. Notably, the starting wages for these new positions are set at $27 per hour, well above the regional median wage of $21.58. This move highlights a concerted effort to provide quality jobs that offer competitive pay and benefits, which can invigorate the local community.
Investment Details
– Total Investment: $24.5 million
– New Jobs Created: 82
– Starting Wages: $27 per hour plus benefits
– State Support: $1 million performance-based grant from the Michigan Strategic Fund
Project Scope
The revitalization project will repurpose nearly 400,000 square feet across nine buildings located at the former Domtar site at 1700 Washington Avenue. This space will be tailored for paper manufacturing, warehousing, and additional industrial uses, aligning with trends toward domestically produced sustainable specialty and food-grade packaging.
Community Impact
The job creation aspect of this project stands to significantly benefit the local economy. The introduction of 82 new jobs with starting wages that exceed the regional median represents an opportunity for local residents to find employment that offers both stability and growth. With the assistance of the Michigan Strategic Fund, which provided a $1 million performance-based grant, this investment serves as a beacon of hope for the Port Huron community.
Background
The Domtar mill, which has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1888, was officially closed in 2020, resulting in the loss of around 200 jobs. The acquisition of this property by the BMI Group in September 2024 signifies a proactive step toward revitalizing an area that was previously bustling with manufacturing jobs. The company is committed to breathing new life into the facility and repurposing it for modern manufacturing needs.
About Port Huron Paper Company
Port Huron Paper Company operates as a subsidiary of the BMI Group, focusing on the revitalization of underutilized industrial sites, particularly former pulp and paper mills. This focus reflects a broader mission to restore social and economic opportunities within industrial and commercial infrastructures.
About the Michigan Strategic Fund
The Michigan Strategic Fund is a state agency that encourages economic development through various programs, including performance-based grants designed to stimulate investment and job creation across Michigan. This initiative showcases the effectiveness of state support in fostering local economic growth.
About the Port Huron Community
Port Huron has maintained its status as a community with a solid manufacturing history, complemented by its waterfront attractions. The revival of the paper mill is poised to enhance economic stability and growth, bringing new job opportunities and revitalizing the local workforce.
About the Port Huron Economy
The economy in Port Huron has witnessed robust growth, characterized by over $850 million in new private investment and the creation of more than 3,700 jobs over the past decade. Such trends underscore the city’s commitment to attracting new businesses while supporting existing enterprises, contributing to its economic vitality.
Conclusion
The redevelopment of the Port Huron Paper Company’s facilities is more than just an investment in physical infrastructure—it represents a revitalization of the community and the local workforce. With significant job creation and competitive wages, this project highlights the positive trajectory of Port Huron’s economy. It encourages engagement from the community and supports the idea that private investment, coupled with limited regulation, can lead to meaningful growth. As this transformation unfolds, residents are encouraged to support local businesses and stay informed about the future of economic development in Port Huron and beyond.
FAQ
What is the total investment in the Port Huron Paper Company project?
The total investment is $24.5 million.
How many new jobs will be created by this project?
The project is expected to create 82 new jobs.
What will be the starting wages for the new jobs?
The starting wages will be $27 per hour plus benefits.
What kind of support is being provided for the project?
A $1 million performance-based grant from the Michigan Strategic Fund will support the project.
When did the Domtar mill close?
The Domtar mill officially closed in 2020, with operations winding down the following year.
Key Features of the Port Huron Paper Company Project
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Investment | $24.5 million |
| New Jobs Created | 82 |
| Starting Wages | $27 per hour plus benefits |
| State Support | $1 million performance-based grant |
| Project Scope | Renovation of nine buildings, 400,000 square feet |
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