BENTON HARBOR, MI-Whirlpool Corp., one of the nation’s largesthome appliance manufacturers, has announced that it will keep itsheadquarters here in Western Michigan, with plans to build a newthree-office campus in this city’s downtown. The cost of theproject on the riverfront retail site on Main Street, between RiverStreet and Riverview Drive, is reportedly $85 million.

The company said in a statement that it plans to receive a largefinancial incentive package from the state. "Thanks tocollaboration with our four local government bodies, and with theState of Michigan, we will further strengthen our commitment to theBenton Harbor - St. Joseph communities," said Jeff M. Fettig,chairman and CEO, in a statement. "With more than 4,000 individualsin our current facilities, we have simply outgrown our currentspace. This initiative is a good business decision as the newcampus and related changes are expected to increase productivityand energy efficiency, and reduce operating costs."

The company will be consolidating most of the current 15 ownedand leased facilities in the region into three main campuses. Thesewill include the new complex, the existing Benton HarborAdministrative Center and St. Joseph Technology Center locations.the company plans to retain its Hilltop Drive South offices in St.Joseph and the Harbor Town offices in Benton Harbor.