Great Lakes Economic Initiative

From Great Lakes Wiki

"The Brookings Institution's Metropolitan Policy Program, in partnership with a network of academic, public policy, business, and civic organizations, launched a multi-year research and policy development initiative in 2005 to improve the economic vitality of the Great Lakes region."

A grant for $150,000 was issued to the Brookings Institution for the 2007 calendar year to translate a report on the economic benefits of healthy Great Lakes. Regional governors, educators and business communities then have the opportunity to promote a beneficial economic vision based on Brookings' findings.

The project began in 2005.

"The Great Lakes themselves can be a key asset in regional renewal—serving as a platform for sustainable economic growth and a magnet for skilled workers," the Brookings Institution Web site says.

Brookings reported in September 2007 that the $26 billion investment in restoring the Great Lakes - by cleaning them up and protecting them from pollution, sewage and invasive species - would boost the regional economy by nearly $50 billion.

"Healthy Waters, Strong Economy: The Benefits of Restoring the Great Lakes Ecosystem" - a report by Brookings Institution experts.