The headquarters will be built on a two-acre site in the Automation Alley SmartZone on Big Beaver, between John R and Rochester roads in Troy. Michigan SmartZones are a tax enterprise zone created to assist in the growth of technology-based businesses.

When it opens in the fall of 2004, the facility will house approximately 15 associates, including Automation Alley's central staff and the Technology Center staff, which will report to Thomas Anderson, Rodgers says. Automation Alley estimates the headquarters will contribute approximately $15 million to the local economy and generate approximately 100 new jobs over the course of the next five years. A groundbreaking is planned for the spring.

The grant was passed as part of the Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies (VA-HUD) Appropriations Act. US Rep. Joe Knollenberg, (R-Bloomfield Township), secured the grant in the bill.

"Automation Alley is a tremendous resource for technology-related companies in Southeastern Michigan," Knollenberg says. "The Technology Center will assist Automation Alley in promoting the growth of high-tech companies in the area by offering increased visibility for new technologies that result from research and development efforts."

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