Michigan’s governor recently announced two economic development projects in Kalamazoo County, one in Portage, the larger one in Schoolcraft Township.
Forming USA, a Swiss-based manufacturer of cold-rolled steel products, is planning a sales office and manufacturing plant on US-131 on a 38-acre site south of the village of Schoolcraft. The other, TST Portage, is redeveloping a manufacturing facility and building a new one. Investment in the two projects will total $25 million.
“Investments in Kalamazoo County will create 64 good-paying jobs and grow our manufacturing economy,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
Forming USA’s expansion will mean 50 jobs and more than $15 million in capital investment. It’s supported by a $500,000 Michigan business Development Program grant.
The company plans to start construction of a 50,000-square-foot building on its site this year, then add on over the following years. Development will include a rail spur for deliveries. A press release included a street address on US-131 for the development. It’s the same street number as that used by CJ’s Barn Loft, which sells concrete statuary and antiques. Owner Tammy Rhoda said the store will remain. A family member has sold off adjacent property for Forming USA’s development.
