CRRC Groundbreaking Ceremony
Creating a high-profile, culturally respectful event for local, state, and national dignitaries

Challenge:
CRRC Sifang America was awarded a $1.3 billion contract to build the next generation of Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) railcars to deliver world-class transit for Chicago’s millions of rail riders. Resolute worked with CRRC Sifang America to plan and execute a ceremonial groundbreaking for their $100 million, state-of-the-art railcar manufacturing plant site located in Chicago’s southeast side.

Strategy and Tactics:
Resolute was retained to manage all event logistics and production for the groundbreaking ceremony, while ensuring Chinese customs and traditions were integrated throughout. The event was held at the future site of the facility featuring many dignitaries in the speaking program, displays of model cars and a video produced by Resolute highlighting the transformational partnership between Chicago and China and the benefits of the new facility for Chicago and the surrounding community.

Outcome:
More than 400 community leaders, elected officials, neighborhood organizations and local partners gathered at the future construction site of the facility, celebrating Chicago’s first rail car assembly facility in 50 years. Dignitaries present included Illinois U.S. Senator Richard J. Durbin, Illinois U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Alderman Susan Sadlowski Garza, Hong Lei, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China, Jorge Ramirez, President of the Chicago Federation of Labor, Sun Yongcai, Vice President of CRRC Corporation and Dorval Carter Jr., CTA President.