Location and Transportation
Air, road and rail keep the region moving
Regional businesses that import, export or move products around the globe are dependent on timely, reliable transportation whether by air, road or rail. They find it in mid-Michigan, with a strategically positioned airport, key locations on a major rail line from Canada to Mexico and a convenient freeway infrastructure. Commerce is continuously flowing in and out of the region, 24/7 with our multi-modal transportation system. Transportation is one of the region's key assets and is credited with making the region attractive for new business investments.
Capital Region International Airport is one of the region's major economic engines, contributing one billion dollars annually to the local economy. The airport is leading regional efforts in developing global marketing strategies. Port Lansing is an official US port of entry with United States Customs and Border Protection operations serving international passengers and freight coming in through the port. The growth of an ambitious air cargo program along with other modal freight processing will lead to additional jobs and investment in warehousing, distribution, manufacturing and logistics, ultimately making Port Lansing a global logistics center. The airport is a major UPS regional hub contributing significantly to the region's economic growth.
In August 2009, the federal government approved the application for foreign trade zone (FTZ) status and Port Lansing officially became home to Foreign Trade Zone No. 275. There are numerous benefits for business to utilize a FTZ including reduction, delay, or elimination of duties required on imported goods. Visit www.portlansing.com for additional details on how your business can leverage Port Lansing and FTZ No. 275 to improve cash flow, improve efficiencies through logistics and reduce expenses.
Capital Region International Airport currently has passenger airline service with Northwest/Delta, United Airlines, providing direct service to Detroit, Chicago, Minneapolis, and connecting service worldwide. In December 2009, direct international flights to Cancun will be provided through Apple Vacations, utilizing the airports new, state-of-the-art US Customs and Border Protection Federal Inspection Station (FIS). The Airport Authority continually explores new partnerships to add passenger service to other popular business and vacation destinations.
The growth of international freight and passenger programs combined with strong passenger service hold great promise for significant growth in the years to come at Capitol Regional International Airport.
Public transportation is a vital part of our region's economy. The Capital Area Transportation Authority (CATA) has over 30 fixed routes and the Eaton County Transportation Authority (EATRAN) on-demand service allows many employees affordable and reliable transportation to and from their jobs as well as to school, medical appointments and shopping. CATA's importance to the region is quantified by the fact it provided ten million rides last year.
The accessibility and reliability of the region's highways, rail and air service strengthen our economy and position regional businesses to accomplish their goals, by more effectively moving products across town, across the country or around the world.
