DETROIT - Sen. Hansen Clarke (D-Detroit) is determined to keep the Cobo Hall expansion discussion alive. Today he announced he will introduce a bill that will amend the current law in an effort to address the concerns of Detroit’s City Council regarding the project. Clarke’s amendment would give City Council more time to consider the renovation and expansion proposal, and would give preference to Detroiters in contracting and hiring for the new project.

“The Cobo Hall renovation and expansion project is good for Detroit, and good for Michigan,” said Clarke. “The annual auto show brings in thousands of people from around the world, giving us a chance to highlight some of our state’s biggest accomplishments. These people stay in Detroit, bringing a much-needed boost to the area’s economy. The Cobo project would only enhance this experience, along with other world class exhibits coming to our state, and I want to work with City Council members until we can reach an agreement.”

Clarke’s legislation would ensure construction and other projects associated with the Cobo Hall renovation and expansion project would be offered to Detroit bidders first, and then those businesses located within the Regional Convention Facility Authority, and finally other Michigan businesses. This change would directly benefit the city and its business community. Clarke’s legislation would also allow Detroit’s City Council another 45 days to reconsider their decision about the project, giving additional time for all concerns to be addressed about this project.

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