Historical Marker Erected On GM Tech Center Site State Commission Recognizes History And Architecture At Warren Campus
WARREN, Mich. - GM's 640-acre Technical Center, here, was recognized by the Michigan Historical Commission, today, "as a model corporate research and development park." The marker, erected at the Mound Road entrance to the campus recognizes the distinctive architecture of architects Eliel and Eero Saarinen, father and son, who designed the campus in the late '40s.
"We are proud to receive this recognition from the State of Michigan and are also proud that we are nearing completion of a $1 billion investment that will update the campus and prepare it for the next 50 years," said Gerald L. Elson, GM vice president, Vehicle Operations.
Elson told the audience of Warren and Macomb County officials, media, and invited guests that the campus was returning to its roots as a key global vehicle development center for the corporation. "20,000 people come and go from this location every day doing critical work in the design, engineering and testing in preparation for the manufacturing of GM's vehicles. It could definitely be called a 'nerve center' for our global products," he said.
Elson also noted that the cooperative spirit that exists between GM, the State of Michigan and the City of Warren have been major factors in the historic success of the GM Technical Center. "Their cooperation and support have allowed General Motors to continue to invest, update and upgrade the campus to once again be not only the largest but the most modern automotive engineering center in the world. Much of our future success will be determined, here," Elson said.
Keith E. Molin, president of the Michigan Historical Commission said, "The GM Technical Center is among the nation's most significant historic resources. The commission is pleased to honor a site of this caliber, one that is a key component in the automobile industry and a fantastic complex designed by world renowned architects."
Other speakers, including Warren Mayor Mark Steenbergh, recognized the significance of GM's continued presence and investment in Michigan and the Technical Center.
General Motors , the world's largest vehicle manufacturer, designs, builds and markets cars and trucks worldwide, and has been the global automotive sales leader since 1931. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.