Here is a summary of the most important news stories from across Michigan's Upper Peninsula for the week of June 27, 2025, to July 4, 2025.
Across the Upper Peninsula
U.P. Braces for Major Tourism Influx Over Holiday Week
Tourism officials across the Upper Peninsula have reported near-record bookings for the Fourth of July holiday week. With favorable weather forecasts, businesses from St. Ignace to Ironwood are anticipating a significant economic boost. However, the surge in visitors is also straining local resources, with hospitality businesses reporting ongoing staffing shortages. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has paused most road construction projects to ease traffic flow over the Mackinac Bridge and major routes like US-2 and M-28.
Marquette & Ishpeming
Marquette Prepares for Fourth of July Festivities Amid Waterfront Development Debate
The City of Marquette is gearing up for its annual Fourth of July parade and fireworks display, expected to draw thousands to the Mattson Lower Harbor Park. The festivities come as the city commission continues to debate the final proposals for a new mixed-use development project along the waterfront, with public commentary focusing on preserving public access and green space. Meanwhile, in nearby Ishpeming, the city celebrated its annual Festival of Treasures, highlighting the region's mining heritage.
Sault Ste. Marie
Soo Locks Engineers Complete Critical Maintenance Ahead of Peak Shipping Season
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced the completion of critical maintenance on the Poe Lock, the largest and busiest lock at Sault Ste. Marie. The repairs were finished just ahead of the peak iron ore and grain shipping season on the Great Lakes. The announcement has been met with relief from shipping companies who feared potential delays. Tourism around the locks has also peaked, with boat tours consistently sold out.
Houghton & Keweenaw Peninsula
Michigan Tech Awarded $5 Million Federal Grant for Advanced EV Battery Research
Michigan Technological University in Houghton has secured a major federal grant to establish a new research hub focused on developing next-generation materials for electric vehicle batteries. The project is expected to create new high-tech jobs and further solidify the Keweenaw Peninsula's role in engineering and technology research. The university will partner with several automotive industry leaders on the initiative.
Escanaba & Gladstone
Escanaba City Council Approves Plans for New Downtown Market Pavilion
Following months of public input, the Escanaba City Council has given the green light to construct a new market pavilion in the downtown area. The project, funded by a combination of state grants and local fundraising, aims to provide a permanent home for the city's popular farmers market and create a venue for community events. In Gladstone, residents are preparing for the annual "Music in the Park" summer series, which kicks off this weekend.
Iron Mountain, Kingsford & Ironwood
Iron Mountain Explores Options for Expanding High-Speed Internet Access
The Iron Mountain City Council held a special session to discuss strategies for expanding reliable, high-speed internet service throughout the city and surrounding areas. Citing the need for economic development and remote work opportunities, the council is considering public-private partnerships to build out the region's fiber optic network. The move is seen as critical for attracting new businesses and residents to the area. Further west, Ironwood has seen a successful start to its summer season, with the popular Stormy Kromer factory tours reporting high attendance.
Menominee
Menominee Waterfront Festival Sees Strong Turnout
The annual Menominee Waterfront Festival, held over the past weekend, was a resounding success, according to organizers. The event, which features live music, art vendors, and a classic car show, drew large crowds from both Michigan and neighboring Wisconsin. The festival provides a significant boost to local businesses and hotels each year.
Share this post