TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) and several other partners are set to begin construction on what they call a landmark project that will put Traverse City on the map as a center for water innovation and a “globally relevant hub for the blue economy.”
Ground is expected to be broken on September 12 for the $28.9 million Freshwater Research and Innovation Center.
It will be on the campus of Discovery Pier in Greilickville and is a collaborative effort by Discovery Pier, NMC, Traverse Connect, Michigan Technological University and 20Fathoms.
According to a news release, by locating working pier space, advanced laboratories and business incubation in one place, the center is expected to serve as a home for water technology and marine mobility.
Greg Luyt, chair of the Center’s board said, “We invite companies, researchers, and funders from around the world to join us as we move ideas from lab to market, build the workforce of tomorrow, and protect our freshwater resources for future generations through innovation.”
In addition to that, NMC will base its Great Lakes Water Studies Institute and the Center and will offer a bachelor’s degree in marine technology. It will also be home to their research vessel, the Northwestern.