Waséyabek, one of the largest and most prosperous economic development firms in Michigan’s Indian Country, received a rare recognition today from CSX Corporation. The national railway company presented a plaque to Waséyabek leaders, recognizing its Mshiké Industrial Complex property near Holland as a Select Site, the first such designation in Michigan.
The 156-acre Mshiké site was obtained by Waséyabek in January 2025. It’s located near the I-196 and M-40 interchange near rail lines, highways, and an airport, making it an ideal location for industrial, manufacturing, and retail development. The property includes 100 acres of vacant land available for development. It’s one of 21 sites selected by CSX this year to receive the Select Site designation under its industrial development program. The Select Site program connects expanding companies with highly desirable rail-served properties. Of the more than 1,110 sites served by CSX, only 6% are designated as a CSX Select Site.
“Each CSX Select Site highlights the power of preparation and partnership. These sites give manufacturers confidence to move forward knowing that established rail lines are accessible nearby that will assist in their business growth. The location and transportation services combine to help communities translate business readiness into real economic growth and job creation.”
The CSX Select Site Bronze designation is a certification awarded to industrial properties that meet rigorous standards for rail-served development, reducing construction time for new facilities. It is part of a program identifying prime locations for industrial growth. The key purpose of the Select Site program is to connect expanding companies with rail-served, shovel-ready industrial development sites.
“This is a tremendously important recognition because it helps to highlight the economic and development viability of the Mshiké property. Our mission, as set forth in our on-going strategic vision, is to obtain assets that bring greater economic diversification and sustainability for the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP) Tribe. This land, and its proximity to rail and highway transportation lines, provides an opportunity for exponential growth for businesses and the Tribal community.
Waséyabek is the non-gaming economic development entity of the NHBP Tribe based in southwest Michigan. Its portfolio of non-gaming investments now totals more than 30 entities, encompassing more than 850 employees in multiple industries throughout North America.