Chamber Says U.S. Prosperity Depends on Strong Infrastructure

Announces Multi Million-Dollar Grassroots Campaign

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Tom Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, will kick off a multi million-dollar nationwide grassroots and advocacy campaign on the critical role of meeting America's transportation and infrastructure needs. The campaign will begin with an event in Lansing, Michigan, on Thursday before an audience of workers, consumers, and businesses.

"We have to wake up to our growing infrastructure challenges," said Donohue. "We cannot have a growing economy and more jobs if our airports and ports aren't functioning properly due to over congestion, and our roads and bridges are crumbling around the country."

The Chamber has devoted more than $2 million to the campaign, which is focused on engaging local businesses and political leaders and boosting its grassroots program. The money will be spent on grassroots advocacy, communications, and advertising. The campaign also includes events in 6 other cities: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; New Haven, Connecticut; Charlotte, North Carolina; Las Vegas, Nevada; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Orlando, Florida.

The Chamber led event in Lansing was sponsored by the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Michigan State University International Business Center, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, and the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association

"You can't move people or goods in and out of your state without a strong infrastructure," continued Donohue. "Our job is to get everyone talking, and to identify legislation to spur investment in infrastructure."

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

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