For generations, vacationers from around the world have traveled to the Muskegon Coastline to experience its beauty. After discovering the diversified economy, affordable housing and quality healthcare, some of those visitors tear up their return tickets.

The components that drive the Muskegon economy are a well-oiled machine: the force of major and advanced manufacturers, presence of emerging industries and continues technological investment keep Muskegon cruising at the head of the pack. 

DIVERSE ECONOMY

The region is a global leader in advanced manufacturing, specializing in metals, plastics, and alternative energy.  Manufacturers are known for products serving the aerospace, automotive, office furniture, defense and related industries.  Experts in energy, technology and life science are making remarkable strides from their Muskegon base. In the downtown, vigorous development has meant opportunities for new and expanding businesses, spurred by massive investments in this vibrant urban center.  Baker College is in the process of developing The Culinary Institute of Michigan, an $11 million investment at Clay Avenue and Third Street in Downtown Muskegon.

TRANSPORTATION

Transformation of the region has been eased by the extensive transportation options, including the Lake Express cross-lake ferry, which has created even more business opportunities. Several state highways, U.S. 31 and 1-96, provide efficient and rapid surface transportation for trucks, buses and passenger cars.  Michigan Shoreline Railroad and CSX handle rail freight.  The Muskegon County Airport provides air cargo and commercial passenger services, including daily service to Detroit and Milwaukee.  The new generation of regional aircraft operated in Muskegon are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and are newer than many of the large jets flown by other airlines.  The Port of Muskegon, a Michigan Port of Entry and a multi-modal ship-rail-truck port and storage center, offers water access to the Great Lakes, and the St. Lawrence Seaway and beyond.

RESOURCES

Cultivating the rich natural resources of the area has also brought economic prosperity.  The region's farms are recognized for cherries, blueberries, peaches and apples.  Farmers' markets offer an abundance of fresh and organic produce, u-pick orchards, farm garden and orchard tours, and access to pumpkin patches in the fall. 

High-skill, high-paying jobs are further boosted by the area's award winning healthcare facilities, which need a talented workforce as they expand.  The result is more jobs fueling the economic activity. 

HEALTH CARE

World-class healthcare facilities support the area's growing population, with a community focus.  Hackley Health and Mercy General Health Partners have joined forces to further strengthen their ability to care for the community.  Now, both organizations are operating under the ownership of Trinity Health. The partnership is enabling two previously recognized organizations to streamline services, enabling increased specialization and state-of-the-art facilities. 

In 2006 and 2007, Mercy received the Distinguished Hospital Award for Excellence from HealthGrades, placing it among the top five percent for clinical excellence.  It was named one of the Solucient Top Hospitals in 2006, and for three years in a row it was awarded the Governor's Award of Excellence.  Further, it was named as one of West Michigan's 10 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in 2007. 

In summer 2007, a new Center for Cancer opened, expanding Mercy's oncology program in an integrated center that offers treatment and exam rooms, a resource library and more, including an outdoor healing garden.  Hackley Health at the Lakes, near the Lakes Mall, has opened and brought together ambulatory services, women's care, physician offices, diagnostic technology and an Urgent Care Center in southern Muskegon County.  The commitment to public health has garnered Hackley multiple awards, including the Governor's Award of Excellence for the past three years in emergency and inpatient care. 

In addition to the major medical centers, located throughout the area are many private practice physicians, chiropractors, mental health specialists, dentists, home care providers and assisted living centers.  For spiritual wellbeing, residents gather in faith communities of diverse denominations inside more than 300 churches, temples, and religious centers, representing diverse beliefs. 
The natural beauty, economic modernization and sense of community make Muskegon a well-rounded place to call home.