ROMULUS, Mich. – A lawsuit challenging the construction of Ford Motor Co.’s BlueOval Battery Park near Marshall, Michigan has been dismissed by a judge, according to the Marshall Area Economic Development Alliance. The lawsuit was filed by a group called the Committee for Marshall-Not the Megasite after the city of Marshall rezoned 700 acres for the battery plant. The group had petitioned for a vote on the rezoning, but the city clerk deemed the petition insufficient, leading to the lawsuit.
In September, a judge ruled against the opponents of the project, denying their request for an injunction and for the court to order the acceptance of the petition by the city clerk. Now, the lawsuit has been dismissed on all counts by a judge in Calhoun County, clearing the way for the development to move forward as planned.
The project has faced its fair share of challenges since its announcement in February 2023. Concerns have been raised by some residents regarding the impact it may have on the community and the environment. In September, Ford paused the project due to the United Auto Workers strike. However, the company later confirmed that the project was still moving forward, albeit with a reduction in the number of jobs it is expected to create. Originally anticipated to employ 2,500 people, the project will now create 1,700 jobs. Ford aims to start production of LFP battery cells at the plant in 2026, with the goal of reducing the cost of electric vehicles.
With the dismissal of the lawsuit, the Marshall Area Economic Development Alliance expresses optimism about the project’s potential. The CEO, Jim Durian, believes the development will benefit the city of Marshall by revitalizing its economy, reversing job losses, and creating opportunities for local residents. Durian’s statement also emphasizes the positive impact the project could have on the local community, highlighting the injection of millions of dollars into the economy and the potential to retain young talent in the area.
In conclusion, Ford Motor Co.’s BlueOval Battery Park near Marshall, Michigan has cleared a major legal hurdle with the dismissal of a lawsuit challenging its construction. The project, which has faced various setbacks, is now expected to move forward as planned, aiming to start battery cell production in 2026 and create 1,700 jobs.