Governor Snyder says strong cities are the key to Michigan’s future.
The Governor outlined his new Office of Urban and Metropolitan Initiatives in Detroit Monday. The program will have offices in Detroit, Grand Rapids, and the Flint-Saginaw area.
Snyder also appointed Harvey Hollins to head the office. Hollins is currently Wayne State University’s vice president for government and community affairs.
Hollins says the state’s traditional lack of focus on urban centers hurts everyone in Michigan. “I’m glad our Governor’s not afraid of Detroit, and believes in a strong Detroit,” Hollins says. “And a strong Detroit is a crucial part of making a strong state.”
Snyder says the initiative will focus on cities’ economic development needs, such as attracting businesses and improving public transit.
The Governor says the initiative is funded by a consortium of state foundations, including the Kresge Foundation, the Kellogg Foundation, and the Mott Foundation.
