Trenton wants DaimlerChrysler to build a new engine plant next to its existing one.

The Detroit News, David Coates / The Detroit News - -Trenton's aggressive push to land a DaimlerChrysler engine plant is the type of strategy needed to secure auto jobs in Michigan. But more study of the proposal to permanently close Van Horn Road is in order.

The four-lane road is the main access to Grosse Ile and closing it without a viable alternative leaves island residents in the lurch. About 16,000 cars a day travel along Van Horn between Grosse Ile and Trenton, and it's a main connector to Interstate 75.

Closing it would force island residents to detour about 30 minutes through downtown Trenton, Grosse Ile Supervisor Kurt Kobiljak told The News.

Trenton officials say the land is needed for a new DCX engine plant, which would be situated next to an existing 2 million-square-foot factory. DaimlerChrysler is expected to announce within two weeks where it will locate the $800 million factory. About 700 jobs will be created to build V-6 engines. Kenosha, Wis., and Toledo also are in the running.

Trenton's thinking is in the right frame of mind. Aggressive actions are needed to prove that Michigan is still the best place to locate auto plants. The Downriver city has been working on its plan for three months, and about three weeks ago was told Van Horn had to be closed to accommodate the DCX design, says Trenton Mayor Gerald Brown.

"Right away we thought about Grosse Ile," he says. "I understand the concerns, and we're going to try to find alternatives."

Installing "smart" traffic lights that would better control traffic flow along adjacent roads at a cost of about $1.5 million is one option. Widening other east-west roads and adding turn lanes are others. Wayne County officials also have been involved in the discussions and would have to approve most actions.

A careful balance must be met. Grosse Ile residents shouldn't be massively inconvenienced and Trenton must be willing to shoulder some of the costs to ensure that doesn't happen. If a plan can be hatched that appeases both communities, it will send a strong signal to DaimlerChrysler and other automotive companies that Michigan is willing to be creative to get their business.