Legacy Paper Restarts Production at Former Domtar Mill in Port Huron

Paper production has resumed at the former Domtar mill in Port Huron, Michigan, as Legacy Paper Group reopens part of the long-idled facility, marking a return of manufacturing activity to the historic site.

The restart centers on one paper machine at the facility, bringing specialty paper production back for the first time since Domtar phased out operations at the site in 2021. The plant, which dates back to 1888, had been inactive for several years following its closure, which resulted in the loss of approximately 200 jobs.

Legacy Paper Group, a subsidiary of BMI Group, is investing approximately $24.5 million to redevelop the site. The project includes repurposing nearly 400,000 square feet across multiple buildings for paper manufacturing, warehousing, and related industrial uses.

The restart is expected to create more than 80 jobs, with additional roles tied to earlier plans to relaunch operations. Initial production is focused on lightweight specialty papers used in food service packaging and other applications.

The redevelopment forms part of a broader effort to revive the industrial site and re-establish papermaking in the region. State support has been tied to performance-based incentives linked to investment and job creation targets.

Legacy Paper has also indicated that the facility will produce papers designed for applications including packaging, confectionery wrapping, and medical uses, reflecting a shift toward specialty and value-added grades.

The reopening signals a continuation of Port Huron’s longstanding paper manufacturing history, with the site transitioning to new ownership and a revised production focus after its previous closure.