MARQUETTE Twp. - Target stores are movin' on up, into the Upper Peninsula.

The first Target store in the U.P. is on the way, being constructed by building trade union members and general contractor Oscar Boldt Construction.

Set for completion next June, the construction process will consistently employ about 45 Hardhats. The 125,000-square-foot project is located on U.S. 41, atop a former gravel pit.

Boldt Project Supt. George Pozorski said a whole variety of different trades are currently on the job, and iron work was expected to begin this week. He said the job entails more than a "big box" home center, with plenty of carpeting, fixtures and office rooms.

"It's a pretty straightforward job," he said. "We're doing great."

Noting the impending arrival of a U.P. winter, IBEW Local 1070 Business Manager Tony Retaskie said, " I hope they get the building enclosed soon, or those guys are going to be cold."

Upper Peninsula Labor Management Council Executive Director Tom Hogan said "to the best of my knowledge," this is the first Target store in the U.P., and the largest store since a Wal Mart opened several years ago. A Gander Mountain store is also going up across from the Target.

"Marquette seems to becoming a real shopping destination," Hogan said. "There have been others sniffing around too. I hope these stores lead to others."

PLUMBER Scott Dionne of Local 506 and Pro-therm sets a roof drain at the Target store.