This week, I have had the opportunity to be in Detroit for some great events.  Over the weekend, I attended a Tigers game at beautiful Comerica Park, and let me tell you, I was impressed!  I’ve sat in those stands many times, but on this night, the energy of the packed house was infectious.  From the lead-off homerun to the exciting last innings, it was another great win for our first-place team, and I was thrilled to be a part of it.
 
Last night, I was honored to join local Detroit officials and investors to unveil plans that will transform Detroit’s old Book-Cadillac hotel into the Westin Book-Cadillac, set to be one of Motown’s grandest establishments.  The hotel has been vacant for more than 20 years, but its splendor and majesty are vivid in the minds of the frequent visitors and local residents who remember the Book-Cadillac as the premier hotel in Detroit.  To breathe new life into this historic structure is truly what urban redevelopment is all about. I am pleased to tell you that this project will create 200 jobs today and 450 jobs upon completion – more good news for our Michigan workers!
 
Not only does this venture mark a new chapter for one of Detroit’s iconic wonders – this renovation, and others like it around the city, mark a new chapter for Detroit.  Just as life will return inside these walls, life is already beginning to be restored to this magnificent city.  And when Detroit thrives, so does Michigan.