LaHood: Detroit Three On Their Way To Recovery ANN ARBOR, MI (Michigan Radio) - Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood says federal money to help Chrysler and General Motors appears to have been well-spent.

LaHood toured Ford's Research and Innovation Center , Chrysler's Technical Center, and GM's Milford Proving Grounds this week.

"And I want to tell you all, you should be very, very happy, there is lots of innovation and creation and energy and enthusiasm in the auto industry, and that's what I'm going to report to the President tomorrow."

LaHood says he received a commitment from all three automakers that they will develop hands-free alternatives to cell phones and texting, especially for young drivers.

LaHood recently held a national forum on the growing problem of distracted driving.

He also says Michigan is in the running for federal money for high-speed rail.

The decision on which states get a share of one and a half billion dollars in federal grants for rail projects will be announced later this year.

LaHood made his comments at a meeting of the Detroit Economic Club.
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