Tension Grows Over Genesee County Megasite as Swartz Creek Resident Alleges Harassment

With no company lined up for the 1,300-acre project, residents like Don Ludwig say the state-backed development has created fear and uncertainty instead of jobs

SWARTZ CREEK, Mich. — Don Ludwig says he’s one of the few homeowners left near the proposed Genesee County megasite who refuses to sell. Living in Swartz Creek, Ludwig says the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance is harassing him, and claims that a camera and other equipment have been installed just beyond his fence line, aimed toward his property.

Don Ludwig provided the video below:

Ludwig shared photos and video with me that he says show the devices positioned on the opposite side of his fence. The images have not been independently verified, and officials with the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The industrial development, known as the Advanced Manufacturing District, covers roughly 1,000 to 1,300 acres in Mundy Township, just south of Flint Bishop Airport. The site is bordered by Linden, Elms, Hill and Maple roads, according to the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

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Officials have promoted the project as “shovel ready” for advanced manufacturing, including semiconductor and electric-vehicle production. The state has committed hundreds of millions of dollars for land purchases, demolition and infrastructure work meant to attract a major employer.

But residents and local lawmakers have criticized the effort as opaque and disruptive. According to Bridge Michigan, the state has spent about $261 million in public funds to acquire and clear land for the megasite, with longtime homeowners saying they were pressured to sell and left uncertain about the future of their neighborhoods.

In July 2025, Crain’s Detroit Business reported that SanDisk, the company Michigan had been courting for a potential $55 billion chip plant, withdrew from negotiations, citing national economic uncertainty. Since that withdrawal, there has been no new company announced for the Mundy Township site.

Environmental concerns have also surfaced. In April, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) issued a notice of violation to the developers connected to the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance and its holding company, Maple & Hill LLC, for work that affected wetlands, drains and tree cover without authorization, according to WNEM-TV and the Swartz Creek View.

Ludwig’s claims reflect the growing tension between remaining homeowners and economic development officials as the project moves forward without a confirmed tenant. Critics argue that local officials have not been transparent about their plans, while supporters maintain the megasite could still be key to Michigan’s economic future.

With no company currently tied to the project and increased scrutiny from residents and legislators, the next steps for the Genesee County megasite remain uncertain.