Ford II optimistic about plan to revive Metro area

November 17, 2006

Robert Snell / The Detroit News

SOUTHFIELD -- Edsel Ford II knows there are shelves filled with failed plans to fix Metro Detroit.

His new initiative, "One D: Transforming Regional Detroit," won't add to the stack, he said.

In his first public comments since the initiative was announced earlier this week, the great-grandson of auto pioneer Henry Ford discussed One D during a Leaders Without Borders breakfast Thursday at the Westin Southfield.

By spring, a collaboration of public, private and nonprofit leaders will create a 25- or 30-point plan to improve the region, said Ford, 57, who sits on the board of Ford Motor Co. and who has been active with the Detroit Regional Chamber.

Here's a sampling of Ford's comments about the collaboration and his role:


On succeeding where others failed: "I realize I face some skeptics. Maybe some are saying 'Edsel, I've heard that speech before. It's another study.' Well, I think you're wrong. I have very high hopes.

"It revolves around a central principle that everyone gives up something for the larger goal or greater good. I challenge you to consider what you might be willing to set aside."


On why now, why this: "Economic or development challenges cannot be solved by independent jurisdictions working alone."


On how he came up with the idea after watching groups work independently: "We're never going to win under that scenario. I had a vision maybe we should start talking to each other."


On recognizing signs that the plan is working: "Hopefully we'll never know. It will just evolve."


On the importance of race relations: "The more we talk about it, and don't view it as the elephant in the room, the more we can work together and celebrate our diversity. It's one way to make Detroit a powerful region."

You can reach Robert Snell at (313) 222-2028 or rsnell@ detnews.com.


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One D, six partners
The six business and civic groups Edsel Ford II rallied to form One D: Transforming Regional Detroit are:


New Detroit; the Detroit Regional Chamber; the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau; Detroit Renaissance; United Way for Southeastern Michigan; and the Cultural Alliance of Southeastern Michigan
Focus areas

Economic prosperity, educational preparedness, regional transit, race relations, regional cooperation and quality of life