MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – In what he’s calling the ‘Thank you, Michigan’ tour, U.S. Senator Gary Peters is traveling to multiple stops across the state in a familiar fashion, on a Harley Davidson Heritage Classic.
During this 10th and final annual tour, the outgoing senator visited Marquette on Wednesday visit the construction of the new Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti. Peters explains the over $90 million project was unable to be funded solely by the state, leading to his cooperation with a group of bipartisan lawmakers to ultimately gather $56.7 million in funds for the site.
“It’s a challenge to get the resources for these facilities, there are a lot of demands, but the state program behind this Jacobetti Center has become a model for the country, where the state is invoved in the federal government,” he said. “As I don’t run for reelection, to see this home opening up shortly thereafter for veterans is very gratifying. I appreciate all the support from folks in the Marquette community.”
During the visit, the project’s interim administrator and assistant superintendent shared some of the facilities ongoing timeline. After breaking ground in May 2025, the project is anticipated for completion in fall of 2027.
“The progress has been great, the construction team worked through the entire winter doing footings and foundations,” said Interim Administrator Chris LaJoie. “We’re hoping in 2028 we’ll be moving our first vets in.”
The 38-acre space will feature private housing and multiple community spaces for 108 veterans.
