Message from Vicky Rowinski
The first half of 2026 has been one of the most significant periods of growth and opportunity our department has experienced in recent years. While the stories in this newsletter highlight many of our ongoing initiatives, they represent only a portion of the work taking place across our team.
The biggest milestone came in May, when Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation providing a historic $152 million state investment for Selfridge Air National Guard Base. This critical funding positions the base to unlock an anticipated $792 million in federal infrastructure upgrades as it prepares to welcome the next generation of F-15EX fighter aircraft. This investment strengthens our nation's defense while creating long-term economic opportunities, supporting jobs, attracting new business, and reinforcing Macomb County's role as a hub for aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and innovation.
Beyond Selfridge, our teams have continued making meaningful progress throughout the county. Our Economic Development division has connected businesses with new opportunities, expanded industry partnerships, and supported workforce initiatives. Community Development continues to invest in our communities through Brownfield Redevelopment, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) programs, and neighborhood revitalization efforts. Parks and Natural Resources has advanced conservation projects and expanded green spaces, while our Mapping and Data Services and Marketing and Communications teams continue providing the tools, data, and outreach that support every division and strengthen service across Macomb County.
The momentum we're experiencing today is the result of strong partnerships, strategic investment, and a shared vision for the future. As you read through this edition, I encourage you to connect with our team to learn more about our work and explore opportunities to collaborate. Whether you're a business, community leader, local official, or resident, we look forward to working together to continue building a stronger, more prosperous Macomb County.
Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn, or reach out anytime at planning@macombgov.org. Thank you for your continued partnership and support.
Vicky Rowinski
Community corner
Input needed for Macomb County's only state park
Macomb County’s Parks and Natural Resources team has played a major role in the development of the W.C. Wetzel State Recreation Area.
Named in honor of a WWII U.S. Army Solider and Medal of Honor recipient, this park is located in New Haven and is the only state park in Macomb County. Spread across 913 acres, the park offers unique amenities to explore. Hiking, walking, hunting, bird-watching and RC flying are the current activities available, with more coming down the pipeline in the future.
Currently the PNR team are in partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to update the parks management plan. This plan will ensure a strategy is in place to protect the site’s resources and provide park goers with access to land and water based public recreation, as well as educational opportunities. Both teams are dedicated to preserving the longevity of this park and continuing to provide recreation access to the region.
While our PNR team continues to work on the management plan, we ask that community members, stakeholders and anyone else interested to fill out this survey to help ensure the area meets the needs of its visitors and community.
Annual Action Plan approved by Board of Commissioners to assist community development priorities
This summer, the Macomb County Board of Commissioners approved of the Community Development team’s 2026 Annual Action Plan. This plan allocates Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding, provided by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), to cover 13 projects with the goal of identifying and assisting data-driven, local housing and community development priorities. Some of these projects begin construction in 2027 and include:
- Eastpointe Street Reconstruction: Raven Avenue from Forest to Hauss
- Harrison Township Sewer Lining: S. Magdalena
- Macomb Township – Senior Center Parking Lot Phase II: 51210 Alma Drive
- Mount Clemens – Fire Engine and Fire Equipment: 2 Dickinson Street
- New Baltimore – ADA Sidewalk Ramp Installation Phase 7: various locations
- Richmond City – ADA Sidewalk Ramp Installation: various locations
- Shelby Township – Sidewalk Installation: 22 Mile Road between Rex Street and Shelby Road
Funding will also go towards public service activities, such as grass cutting and snow removal, nonprofit assistance, rent assistance and senior center programming in multiple municipalities.
The Macomb County Community Development team continues to focus on improving public infrastructure and facilities for those in eligible neighborhoods and low- to moderate-income residents. To learn more, visit the Neighborhood and Housing Development page.
Help shape the future of materials management in Macomb County
Michigan recently passed new recycling laws that require all 83 counties to update their Materials Management Plans (MMP). One of the key goals is to increase the state’s recycling rate from 25% to 30% by 2029. The County is seeking input from residents and businesses to better understand local needs, challenges, and opportunities for improving services.
Why this matters
A strong materials management system helps protect the environment, support local jobs and businesses, reduces disposal costs, and improves the quality of life for everyone in the county. Community feedback will help guide future programs, services, and investments towards waste reduction, recycling, and composting.
We want your input
To better understand the needs of our community, the County is seeking input from residents and businesses via a survey. Responses will help better understand current services, identify barriers to participation, and explore opportunities for new or expanded programs.
Please take this survey before Friday, August 28. Thank you for your participation!
Greenway plan focuses on land conservancy, reduce residential flooding
In 2019, the Macomb County Parks and Natural Resources (PNR) team received federal funds through SEMCOG for the North Branch Greenway Vision plan. As one of the last remaining rural areas within the Clinton River Watershed, the North Branch Spillway (located around 23 Mile in Macomb Township) drains roughly around 200 square miles of agricultural, forested and residential areas. Its importance cannot be overstated.
Part of the Greenway Vision Plan is to preserve and update the land to control erosion and keep natural flooding from spilling over into residential areas. To do this, accomplish this goal, the PNR team helped Macomb Township acquire property through FEMA funds. This property is 27 acres and helps add to North Branch Greenway vision. There are plans to remove any invasive species or dead vegetation found, as well.
The project continues to move forward with support from Macomb County, the Clinton River Watershed Council (CRWC), Huron-Clinton Metroparks, SEMCOG, and Six Rivers Land Conservancy. As well as Macomb, Clint, Ray and Lenox townships.
The race is on! Register for Sprint and Splash today
Sprint and Splash is back again for its 14th year! This multisport event returns on Sunday, September 20 at an all-new location at Brandenburg Park, as a partnership between Chesterfield Township and Macomb County.
Those who register will have the opportunity to participate in a 5K run/walk along a local, scenic route and/or a 2-mile paddle in the beautiful Lake St. Clair.
Registration is open, with prices increasing on August 30. Learn more about the event and day-of perks on the Sprint and Splash website!
Economic development
Selfridge moving forward
At the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed bipartisan legislation investing $152 million in runway expansion and infrastructure improvements at Selfridge Air National Guard Base.
This investment is a major step toward securing the base’s future, strengthening our national defense mission, and supporting long-term economic growth in Macomb County. It reflects years of collaboration and advocacy from leaders at every level who recognize Selfridge’s importance as both a strategic military asset and a powerful economic driver for our region.
With this milestone achieved, the work of bringing the next generation mission to Selfridge moves forward.
To learn more about how Macomb County is preparing for the next generation of aircraft at Selfridge, visit the Mission Next website.
Success stories
Capture Systems new HQ in Macomb County
With support from Macomb County Planning and Economic Development (MCPED), Capture Systems has chosen Macomb County for its new North American headquarters. The move brings an innovative defense technology company specializing in advanced motion control and positioning systems to the region, reinforcing Macomb County's position as a leader in defense, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing. Read the full story to learn more about the company's investment and what it means for the region's growing innovation economy.
For the full story please visit the Macomb Business website.
Atomic Industries expanding in Shelby Township
Atomic Industries is expanding its Shelby Township operations through a newly approved Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate (IFEC). The investment will fuel advanced manufacturing growth, create new jobs, and strengthen the region's position as a hub for innovation. Read the full story to learn how this partnership is driving long-term economic growth in Macomb County.
Dutton Farm, expand and support
Dutton Farm has opened a new, larger location in Clinton Township, expanding its ability to serve adults with developmental disabilities. From site selection to connecting community partners, MCPED helped make the move possible. Read the full story to learn how this partnership is creating new opportunities for individuals and families across Macomb County.
Macomb County Planning and Economic Development was proud to support this project and help connect Dutton Farm with resources that made this move possible. Special thanks to Hali Lenney and everyone involved in bringing this vision to life.
Department happenings
MCPED welcomes new and returning interns
Samuel Andrzejewski
The Macomb County Planning and Economic Development (MCPED) parks and natural resources team is happy to announce our new intern, Samuel Andrzejewski. Sam is a graduate of Oakland University, where he majored in biology.
“I was familiar with MCPED beforehand ... when I heard that this position opened, I jumped at the opportunity,” said Sam. "I [am] most excited to learn about and work with our PNR team. I have always had an interest in plants, and this internship allows me to use my plant identification skills all around the County.”
Born and raised in Warren, Sam’s favorite past time in Macomb County is walking around Partridge Creek and grabbing coffee.
Welcome to the team, Sam!
Ella Hill
Ella Hill returns to MCPED as our summer marketing and communications intern. Ella is entering her junior year at Michigan State University and is pursuing a major in Marketing. Since her last internship with the County, she’s been engaged in all thing's campus life, participating in intramural basketball and being accepted into the Eli Broad College of Business.
“I couldn’t wait to work with the MCPED team for another summer," said Ella, “...the team was great to work with last year, and being able to spread my love for Macomb County through the blogs I created was fulfilling!”
As she returns, Ella is set to continue her blogs while also supporting social media, event efforts and so much more. We’re happy to have you back, Ella!
