Mackinac Bridge / Innovation .(MP3- 3MB)

Granholm Celebrates Mackinac Bridge's 50th Anniversary, Heralds Innovative Responses to Economic Challenge

Last week, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the opening of the magnificent Mackinac Bridge. Much like today’s economy, the bridge was an enormous challenge at a critical juncture in Michigan’s history. Yet despite initial skepticism, which persisted even after the span was completed, the bridge proved to be a smart investment and became a symbol of Michigan's strength and ingenuity.

Michigan’s response to globalization and outsourcing requires the same spirit of innovation and determination that led to the building of the Mackinac Bridge. While the state has been at the forefront of innovation in the auto industry for a century, our comprehensive economic plan is focused on diversifying and growing jobs in new, cutting edge industries. Michigan’s automotive heritage and our ability to attract leading businesses in the alternative energy and biofuel industries give us the opportunity to break our nation’s dependence on foreign oil.

Just as our state undertook to do something that no one else in the world had done, we have undertaken our own immense challenge today. We’re transforming our economy into a diverse, vibrant, 21st century powerhouse that has thriving alternative energy businesses, advanced manufacturing firms, life sciences facilities, and homeland security companies.

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