ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 29, 2008) – Governor Martin O’Malley today joined Virginia Governor Tim Kaine, Washington D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty and House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer at the U.S. Capital in Washington D.C. to launch the Chesapeake Crescent Initiative, a unique partnership designed to increase the region’s global competitiveness.
“The Chesapeake Crescent Initiative is an innovative approach that will help us work more closely with our neighbors to identify regional solutions to some of our shared challenges,” said Governor O’Malley. “By pooling our resources, we hope to be able to find long-term solutions to some of the pressing environmental, transportation and economic challenges that we all face separately every day.”
The initiative, which is considered the first of its kind in the nation, is focused on integrating the valuable resources of the region, addressing environmental challenges, harnessing intellectual and entrepreneurial assets, and creating effective transportation options.
“The Greater Washington region is home to a tremendous number of resources, first-rate institutions of higher learning, prominent businesses, an incredibly well educated populace, a diverse economy, the federal government and its multitude of world-class science and research facilities,” said Congressman Hoyer. “To maximize these assets, capitalize on obvious synergies, and effectively compete in the global economy, the region’s public and private sector leaders must work together across jurisdictional boundaries. That is the goal of the Chesapeake Crescent. I am a strong supporter of this exciting collaboration, and I look forward to working together as we look to tackle the tough issues that lie ahead.”
“In the 21st Century economy, we know that regions, not artificial political boundaries, compete for talent and capital,” Virginia Governor, Tim Kaine said. “The Crescent is an important effort to leverage our world-class research strengths, knowledgeable workforce, and robust business climate to deliver high-paying jobs for generations to follow.”
“To build a truly globally competitive region, we have to think across jurisdictional lines when it comes to building a more green and sustainable economy, driving innovation and investment and making our transportation network more efficient and effective,” said D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty.
January 29, 2008 |
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