# Sterling Heights and Warren Launch Defense Corridor Initiative

Sterling Heights and Warren, Michigan, have jointly approved a **$1.3 million, three-year contract** with AECOM to lead the Arsenal Alliance, a regional economic development initiative aimed at expanding the defense sector and enhancing competitiveness for federal contracts. This partnership focuses on workforce development, innovation, and collaboration to strengthen Southeast Michigan's defense industry footprint, particularly around the Detroit Arsenal facility. The initiative builds on Macomb County's strong defense contracting history, where over $61 billion in defense contracts have been awarded in the past 25 years, and 63% of Michigan's federal defense contracts in 2023 were secured by firms in this area.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals and contractors should note the growing emphasis on regional collaboration to support defense sector growth and federal contract competitiveness in Michigan.
- The contract with AECOM signals opportunities for businesses aligned with workforce development, innovation, and supply chain strengthening in the defense corridor.
- Organizations involved in defense contracting in Macomb County, especially near Sterling Heights and Warren, may find increased support and partnership opportunities through the Arsenal Alliance.
- This initiative highlights the importance of municipal-level economic development efforts in shaping federal procurement landscapes and regional defense ecosystems.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Contracting Vehicles
**Published:** April 10, 2026

### Government Entities
- City of Sterling Heights
- City of Warren

### Vendors
- AECOM (prime contractor)

### Key Quotes
> Over $61 billion in defense contracts were awarded to Macomb County businesses over the last 25 years, and 63% of all federal defense contracts awarded in Michigan in 2023 were secured by Macomb County firms, most of which are in Sterling Heights and Warren.
> — Chris Brewer, Vice President of AECOM

> With both communities moving forward together, we’re creating real opportunities for our workforce, supporting local businesses, and strengthening the mission at the Detroit Arsenal.
> — Lori Stone, Mayor of Warren

> Sterling Heights and Warren are taking a proactive, business-minded approach to protecting a sector that supports families across Macomb County and the state of Michigan.
> — Michael Taylor, Mayor of Sterling Heights

### Sources
- [Sterling Heights, Warren team up on $1.3M push to grow defense corridor - mlive.com](https://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/2026/04/sterling-heights-warren-team-up-on-13m-push-to-grow-defense-corridor.html) - MLive.com