Oil and gas field workers average $64,000 in Kalkaska County, a region where unemployment still tops 10 percent.
Business Watch
Covering the intersection of business and policy, and informing Michigan employers and workers on the long road back from coronavirus. Our Michigan Economic Dashboard shows key metrics that show how the state is performing.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Fracking's Hollywood problem
One indelible image related to hydraulic fracturing – that of a homeowner setting his own water on fire – has dogged the fracking industry since the release of "Gasland," a documentary.
Posted inBusiness Watch
A divisive practice's pros and cons
Fracking’s economic benefits are weighed against the potential risks to Michigan’s environment and public health.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Book excerpt: An automaker survival guide in the age of driving light
Young adults are far more likely than past generations to opt for public transportation or ride sharing than to buy a car of their own, a trend carmakers have been slow to address. In this book excerpt, Micheline Maynard offers Ford, GM and their competitors a blueprint for remaining relevant and profitable.
Posted inBusiness Watch
How the 'car-light' trend is changing Michigan, and the nation
If the rescue of Detroit automakers served as a thank you to President Obama’s political base, his embrace of alternative modes of transportation offers a gesture to the future.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Road funding stalls as state elections near
Republican lawmakers don’t want to be seen as supporting tax increases. Democrats want to blame Gov. Snyder for Michigan’s crumbling infrastructure. The result: a shortage of lawmakers willing to lead the charge for better roads.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Better roads boost economy, business groups say
Many in Michigan’s business community favor increasing fuel taxes and vehicle registration fees, saying crumbling roads make it difficult to do business, and attract new businesses and visitors to the state.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Why are Germany’s roads better? Or are they?
Michigan’s harsh winters and surrounding Great Lakes are difficult foes, even for roads built to German highway standards. But lessons abound
Posted inBusiness Watch
Searchable database: How bad are YOUR roads?
In the last eight years, roads have taken a pounding, with Michigan spending the least in the nation on road work. Use our searchable database to find the current condition of roads in your community.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Michigan roads now among nation’s worst
Michigan spends less per capita on roads and bridges than any other state in the nation, and it shows. Experts say the state needs even more than the $1.3 billion requested by Gov. Snyder to make long-term improvements. Legislative leaders aren’t convinced.