Michigan is spending more than $42 million on drone development as the market for unmanned aerial systems grows nationwide.
Northern Michigan
In US first, Petoskey passes rules to crack down on light pollution
Petoskey’s new lighting ordinance requires new buildings and any renovations to meet standards aligned with dark sky zones.
Advocates: Upper Peninsula prison pay raise won’t solve dangerous shortage
A $10,000 a year pay raise may help with recruitment, but it may not be enough to keep officers working at Upper Peninsula prisons, where former corrections officers say vacant positions contribute to assaults on prison staffers.
In Petoskey, where homes top $1M, some push zoning reform, mortgage relief
During a roundtable discussion, Petoskey-area leaders discussed federal funding for housing development and creating programs to attract and retain workers.
Mackinac Island ferry fight to continue despite legislation
Attorneys for both Mackinac Island and Hoffman Marine say they will continue their legal battle despite the recent passage of a bill that grants the island authority over ferry services.
Gretchen Whitmer on 2028 presidential aspirations: ‘Never say never’
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer used her final keynote speech at the Mackinac Island Policy Conference to outline priorities for the remainder of her term and said “never say never” to a question about whether she wants to run for president.
In northern Michigan, a crazy proposition: Train youths to become farmers
A Traverse City-area program offers lessons on everything from farming business plans to driving a tractor and attracts students from across the US.
Michigan loves a ‘river story.’ But happy ending isn’t guaranteed
Michigan’s rivers are back from the brink — and play a pivotal role in state life. From dams to fish and pollution to development, they face a host of challenges that Bridge is exploring in a summerlong series.
Amid tax pressure, competition, marijuana may move out of rural Michigan
A flooded market has driven down cannabis prices, forcing consolidation of the industry. A new state tax could expedite those changes, and small towns will feel it most.
After years of struggles, Michigan cherry industry pushes for better future
Michigan’s cherry industry has fallen on hard times. A new marketing campaign and better collaboration will turn things around, growers hope.