State Rep. Donni Steele, chairwoman of the Michigan House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, recently met with U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to discuss the importance of Michigan’s maritime industry, shipbuilding, ports and transportation infrastructure.

Steele and Duffy discussed the critical role Michigan’s ports and waterways play in moving goods, supporting manufacturing and strengthening the state’s economy. The conversation also focused on opportunities to support and expand American shipbuilding and ensure the nation has the infrastructure necessary to maintain a strong maritime supply chain.

“Michigan is surrounded by the Great Lakes, and our ports are a tremendous economic asset,” Steele said. “We need to make sure Michigan has the infrastructure, investment and workforce necessary to compete and grow. Strengthening American shipbuilding and investing in our ports and transportation infrastructure is not only good for Michigan, it is important to our national security and economic independence.”

As chairwoman of the House Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, Steele has made transportation infrastructure, roads, bridges, ports and other critical transportation systems a priority in her work in the Michigan Legislature.

“Michigan has an incredible opportunity to lead when it comes to maritime commerce and shipbuilding,” Steele said. “I appreciated the opportunity to speak directly with Secretary Duffy about how we can continue working together to strengthen Michigan’s transportation infrastructure and create opportunities for future generations.”

Steele said continued coordination between state and federal officials will be important as Michigan works to improve its transportation network and maximize the economic potential of its ports and waterways.