On the recordApril 8, 2014
the automobile is central to who we are as Michiganians. The automotive industry helped create the middle class, shape the labor movement, establish America's dominance in manufacturing, and spur new innovation across a range of other economic sectors. For these reasons, Congressman Dingell in the House of Representatives and I in the Senate introduced legislation in 1998 to establish the Motor Cities National Heritage Area. That legislation specified the heritage area would serve not only to preserve and interpret the history of our Nation's automotive heritage, but that it would also promote current and future economic opportunities. The MotorCities National Heritage Area has provided over one million dollars to support tourism projects that have boosted economic activity and jobs. These grants attract additional investment because funding is typically matched by more than $6 for each $1 in grant funding. MotorCities also connects a broad range of auto-related organizations and attractions, and has connected more than 100 organizations, which has bolstered their visibility and impact. Michigan is a magnet for car enthusiasts and history buffs around the globe and MotorCities helps them learn about our history and celebrate it with us. When visitors come to Detroit to see where Henry Ford built the Model T or to Lansing to learn about the rise of Oldsmobile, the existence of the Motor Cities National Heritage Area enhances their visit.…





