December 12, 2005

Congressman Akin Applauds DaimlerChrysler’s Announcement to Invest in Local Plants
Thanks Senator Bond for help in seeking past improvements to the I-44 Corridor

St. Louis, MO - Congressman Todd Akin (R-MO), spoke at today’s press conference announcing an investment by DaimlerChrysler Corporation of up to $1 billion in its St. Louis North and St. Louis South Assembly Plants. Akin joined Governor Blunt, Mayor Dennis Hancock as well as South Assembly Plant Manager Barry Ratzlaff, Chrysler Group Executive Vice President Frank Ewasyshy and Director of UAW Region 5 James Wells in acknowledging the importance of the planned investment and what it means to the regional economy.

Congressman Akin also acknowledged his thanks to Senator Bond (R-MO) for having worked with him to help fund $4 million in past improvements to the I-44 Fenton corridor. “Early in my tenure as Congressman, I had met with local business leaders in the region and determined that adding access ramps would improve access to and from I-44 would improve safety and traffic flow along the corridor,” said Akin. “With help from Senator Bond we were able to secure the funds and I believe that with thousands of people being employed by national and international corporations along the corridor such investments in the economic future of our region more than pays for itself many times over.”

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