By Laura Weber, Michigan Public Radio Network
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkar/local-wkar-931394.mp3
LANSING, MI –
The Detroit Three automakers are expected to invest close to $2 billion and add about 2,000 jobs in Michigan. That's with the help of tax incentives approved Tuesday.
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Governor Granholm says the commitment and investment from Ford, GM and Chrysler shows the automakers are back, and an important part of Michigan's economy. But she says the state also has to continue to diversify so Michigan isn't hit as hard by any future recessions.
"That's the only insulation Michigan will have in the future from being disproportionately affected by a recession; is to diversify our economy and educate our citizens," she says.
The automakers were among more than a dozen companies queued up to receive tax incentives from the Michigan Economic Growth Authority board. Other companies include auto-suppliers, wind turbine manufacturers, and Zingerman's, a well-known deli in downtown Ann Arbor.