LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and Lt. Governor John D. Cherry, Jr. today applauded General Motors' decision to invest up to $700 million to build its future small car at its assembly plant in Orion Township and stamping plant in Pontiac.  Today's announcement will restore approximately 1,400 jobs in total - 1,200 at Orion Assembly and 200 at Pontiac Metal Center, Building #14.
 
"From day one, we said Michigan would aggressively fight for these jobs," Granholm said.  "The competition was intense, but at the end of the day, it was the collective strength of our amazing workforce, innovative and creative economic development tools, and excellent local community and UAW collaboration that sealed the deal for Michigan."
 
"GM's decision to keep these jobs in Michigan is a tribute to the work ethic of the people of Michigan," said Cherry.  "Today's good news gives Michigan's economic recovery and transformation even more momentum."
 
"The selection of Orion and Pontiac required a strong team effort between the state of Michigan, Oakland County, Orion Township, Pontiac and the UAW," said Gary Cowger, group vice president of GM Global Manufacturing and Labor Relations.  "We appreciate the tremendous support we received from the state and local officials involved in the development and submission of the creative incentives proposal that was offered to GM for this project.  We look forward to a successful conclusion to our ongoing economic incentive negotiations."
 
"Today's announcement reaffirms Michigan's standing as a global automotive powerhouse," MEDC President and CEO Greg Main said.  "We are confident that the days ahead hold great things for GM, and we look forward to playing a major role in the company's future success."
 
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation, a partnership between the state and local communities, promotes smart economic growth by developing strategies and providing services to create and retain good jobs and a high quality of life.  For more information on the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's initiatives and programs, visit www.TheMEDC.org