State Rep. Jerry Neyer today expressed strong support for a major private-sector investment and corresponding state-backed infrastructure support that will significantly expand dairy processing capacity in West Michigan. This investment, in turn, strengthens demand for Michigan milk and creates new economic opportunities for farmers and rural communities.

The Michigan Strategic Fund recently approved approximately $50 million in support for infrastructure improvements for Muskegon County connected to dairy processing expansions, including Chobani’s $567 million expansion of its La Colombe coffee facility in Norton Shores.

The project is expected to add more than 200,000 square feet of production space, create nearly 340 new jobs, and retain over 300 existing positions. It also represents a substantial increase in demand for Michigan-produced milk, with projections showing usage growing from approximately 30 million pounds annually to more than 600 million pounds in the coming years.

“As a lifelong dairy farmer, I see this as a major win for Michigan agriculture,” said Neyer (R-Shepherd). “When companies choose to expand here, it strengthens the entire supply chain, from the farm gate to the production floor. This means more demand for Michigan milk, more stability for our dairy farmers, and more opportunity for rural communities across our state.”

Neyer emphasized that investments like this not only create jobs but also reinforce Michigan’s position as a national leader in agriculture and food production. Increased processing capacity ensures that more Michigan-grown products are utilized in-state, supporting both producers and value-added manufacturing.

“This is exactly the kind of investment we should be encouraging,” Neyer said. “It connects our farmers directly to growing markets, supports good-paying jobs, and keeps Michigan agriculture competitive for the long term.”

The funding package remains subject to final approval by the Legislature’s appropriations committees, but Neyer noted the project has received broad bipartisan support and reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Michigan’s agricultural economy.