Blessed with an abundance of nearby freshwater lakes and streams, Pontiac has always been an attractive place in which to live and work. This strong sense of place has helped the city survive two major downturns in the automotive industry, especially that of one of its major employers, General Motors. While the consequent rise in unemployment has caused setbacks, Pontiac continues to rise above them and now boasts an attractive downtown, engaged citizens, and public officials actively pursuing further business diversity for the region.