Media Invited to Tour MDOT's 'Showcase Project' in Downtown Detroit, Sept. 1

WHAT: Members of the media will gather for a brief presentation and learn about MDOT's showcase project, which is a demonstration highway with features geared toward elderly drivers.

  WHO:      Local and regional media outlets
            Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) staff
            Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) officials
            AAA Michigan representatives
            Local officials

  WHEN:     Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2004
            9-11 a.m.
            (Gathering at 9 a.m., speakers begin at 9:30 a.m.)
            MDOT and AAA officials will provide a brief presentation at
            9:30 a.m.
            An optional tour of the showcase project will immediately
            follow.

  WHERE:    Hart Plaza (Ford/UAW monument)
            Detroit

BACKGROUND: MDOT has implemented special safety features along a seven- mile loop in downtown Detroit geared toward promoting safety for elderly drivers. The project includes enhanced traffic signals, new pavement markings and various signs including Jefferson Avenue, northbound M-10, eastbound I-94, southbound I-75, southbound I-375 and back to Jefferson Avenue.

This event will allow members of the media to ask questions, take photos and interview representatives from AAA, FHWA, and MDOT.

NOTE: MDOT will feature the "showcase project" during the North American Conference on Elderly Mobility scheduled at the Marriott Hotel in Detroit for Sept. 12-15. Transportation officials from around the globe will learn about best practices during the four-day event.

PRNewswire -- Aug. 30