Plymouth Redevelopment Commission approves $30,000 for MCEDC and $10,000 for U.S. 30 Coalition

The Plymouth Redevelopment Commission unanimously approved a $40,000 funding request from the Marshall County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) last week, continuing a partnership aimed at driving local industry and shaping the future of major highway corridors.

Greg Hildebrand, Executive Director of MCEDC, appeared before the commission to present the annual invoice and provide an update on the organization's efforts.

"You guys have been a great partner in what we’ve done to attract industry and continue to do," Hildebrand told the board.

The approved $40,000 invoice includes $30,000 for MCEDC's ongoing economic development initiatives and $10,000 earmarked for the U.S. 30 Coalition. Hildebrand noted that the coalition funds are filtered through MCEDC due to the organization's non-profit status.

A significant portion of Hildebrand's presentation focused on the future of U.S. 30 and U.S. 31. He explained that the U.S. 30 Coalition is working diligently to balance highway safety with efficiency and local access. Hildebrand warned that if planners were to focus solely on the safety factor by shutting off all crossroads to create a limited-access highway, it would sever vital county connectivity and stifle economic opportunities.

To prevent this, MCEDC remains actively involved in both the U.S. 30 and U.S. 31 coalitions to ensure economic growth remains at the forefront of any infrastructure planning. Hildebrand emphasized that he is serving as a voice for Marshall County, actively advocating to keep crucial local arteries—such as Oak Drive and Pioneer Drive—accessible to local traffic. Additionally, he is supporting the creation of a new eastern entrance into the City of Plymouth at Lincoln Highway.

Commission member Craig Hopple expressed his gratitude for Hildebrand's regular updates and ongoing advocacy for the community.  "I appreciate all the time, effort, and energy you put into making Plymouth and the surrounding area great," Hopple said.

Following the presentation, the Plymouth Redevelopment Commission voted unanimously to approve the annual fees for both MCEDC and the U.S. 30 Coalition.