Enhanced Infrastructure in Marinette Helps Major Employer Expand Operations

After facing a significant economic downturn between 2005 and 2010, the City of Marinette, in northeast Wisconsin was presented with an economic opportunity. Marinette Marine Corporation, a major city employer, was awarded a contract to manufacture the US Navy’s newest combat ships. However, for the city to meet the needs of the U.S. Navy, Marinette needed to make vital improvements to its public infrastructure. The city’s roads, water system, and sewer system were among the primary infrastructure improvements targeted.

In 2013, EDA invested $2.3 million to revitalize Marinette’s infrastructure. The total project cost was $4.5 million, with the State of Wisconsin and City of Marinette covering the remaining costs.

This led to the reconstruction of 4,650 feet of roadway, the replacement of 5,421 feet of water lines and 2,947 feet of sewer lines, and the installation of 3,176 feet of storm sewer pipe. These improvements allowed Marinette Marine Corporation to retain its 1,300 employees, add 100 new positions, and retain Tyco Fire Products’ 700 employees.

Altogether, the project retained 2,000 jobs, created 100 new jobs and leveraged approximately $50 million in private investment. Marinette Marine Corporation is now the largest shipbuilder in the Western Hemisphere, and the fourth largest in the world, employing almost 1,500 employees. The project has benefitted numerous firms in the region throughout the shipbuilding supply chain.