$181 Million Headed to Indy to Kick-Start Production of New Battery, Hybrid Technology
August 5, 2009
August 5, 2009
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Congressman André Carson issued the following statement after President Barack Obama, while visiting Indiana today, announced a $2.4 billion infusion of Recovery Act funds to support the production of next generation battery and electric vehicle technology. More than $181 million will be invested in Indianapolis, including a $118 million grant award to EnerDel, Inc. for the production of new lithium-ion batteries and a nearly $63 million infusion directed to Allison Transmission to expand its manufacturing operations of hybrid engine systems for commercial trucks.
"With President Obama's landmark announcement today in Indiana, it's clear that our great Hoosier state and its skilled workforce are in a prime position to help lead our nation out of this recession.
"As the President said, the Recovery Act was designed to not only create jobs in the short-term, but make investments in innovation and technology that will lead to long-term prosperity and growth for decades to come.
"That's what this multi-billion dollar investment represents. This infusion of Recovery Act funds will create ten-of-thousands of well-paying, 21st Century jobs, including many right here in Indianapolis. These are the kind of jobs that will put Hoosiers back to work and lay the foundation for a stronger United States of America to arise from this economic recession.
"I'd like to thank the President for reinforcing a fact I often tout—that Indianapolis and Hoosiers across the state are some of the most skilled, hardworking people on the planet; and we stand ready to lead the nation out of this economic slump. Thanks to President Obama's leadership, we have that opportunity, and I'm confident we'll take advantage of it."
###