[StBernard] Governor Blanco, General Motors announce $73 million investment in Shreveport assembly plant to buil

[Westley Annis]

Governor Blanco, General Motors announce $73 million investment in Shreveport assembly plant to build the new HUMMER H3T

SHREVEPORT - Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco welcomed General Motors officials today as they confirmed GM will invest approximately $73 million into its Shreveport truck assembly plant to prepare the plant for production of the all-new HUMMER H3T. Larger than a truck, smaller than a full-size, the H3T is scheduled to arrive in dealerships by third quarter 2008.

After the announcement, the Governor ceremonially signed Act 1 of the 2007 Legislative Session, one of the incentives that paved the way for this investment. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Taylor Townsend and the Shreveport-Bossier Legislative Delegation, accelerates the manufacturing machinery and equipment exclusion for motor vehicle manufacturers. 

"It was no coincidence the very first bill I signed this session provided an exclusion from sales taxes for General Motors," Governor Blanco said. "Act 1 is an integral part of our aggressive economic development agenda, providing $1.28 million in sales tax exclusions to help GM expand this facility. Louisiana looks to partner with companies interested in doing business in our state who will not only positively impact the region's economy with their activity, but will also provide quality jobs with good benefits to our workers. Thank you for helping us move Louisiana forward."

"GM's $73 million investment in Shreveport is further proof that the community remains an important part of GM's manufacturing plan," said Troy Clarke, GM Group Vice President and GM North America President. "The H3T is unique for HUMMER because it is the brand's first true pickup. Like every HUMMER model, the H3T delivers capabilities unparalleled in the marketplace and will carve out a new niche in the truck market. I'm happy to say that the men and women of Shreveport will be a big part of this new growth."

In the last several years, GM has invested $1.4 billion in the Shreveport facility. This investment along with the plant's annual payroll of $160 million and annual taxes of $4.5 million, demonstrates that GM will continue to be an economic force in the local community and state of Louisiana for years to come.

Shreveport Assembly has built trucks since 1981, beginning with the Chevy S-10. The plant presently produces the HUMMER H3 and Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickup trucks. Shreveport Assembly employs approximately 1,840 employees. 

Click here <http://www.gov.state.la.us/index.cfm?md=newsroom&tmp=detail&catID=4&articleID=3304>  to view Governor Blanco's remarks.

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