May 12, 2008 -- National Transportation Week (NTW) is May 11-17, and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is celebrating with several special events. National Transportation Week is observed annually to raise public awareness about the importance of transportation to our cities, states and nation. It also focuses on making young people aware of transportation-related careers. MDOT is participating in three NTW events this year: an Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) conference; a panel discussion regarding Detroit's future in moving people and freight; and a transportation education day at the Detroit Science Center.
"This week we will be talking about smart cars on smart roads, light rail, mass transit, the Port of Detroit, and developing Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport as an Aerotropolis," said State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle. "It's an exciting time for those of us who work in the many modes of transportation, and a great time for young people to learn about what their future in transportation could be."
The Detroit Metro Convention and Visitor's Bureau has planned an entire week of Detroit-area events for National Transportation Week. A complete list of events is available on the NTS Web site at: www.ntweek.org/activities. MDOT is participating in the following events:
2008 ITS Michigan Annual Meeting and Exposition
Tuesday, May 13 and Wednesday, May 14
Rock Financial Showplace, Novi
Over 300 representatives from industry, higher education and all levels of government will gather to discuss the latest developments in "intelligent transportation," including demonstrations of Vehicle Infrastructure Integration (VII). For more information, visit www.itsmichigan.org or call 734-936-2070.
WWJ Newsradio 950 Business Breakfast
Thursday, May 15
8-10 a.m. at The Henry Ford, Dearborn
A panel discussion will feature opening remarks by State Transportation Director Kirk Steudle and a discussion of transportation and logistics enhancements on the drawing board for Southeast Michigan. Scheduled panelists include Dick Blouse, president and CEO, Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce; Heather Carmona, executive director, Woodward Avenue Action Association; Dane Deane, president, Nicholson Terminal and Dock, Inc.; Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano; John Hertel, CEEO, Regional Transit Coordinating Council; Marc Higginbotham, Norfolk Southern Corporation; Paul Tait, executive director, Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG). To purchase tickets, visit www.wwj.com or call 248-455-7200.
MDOT-AASHTO Transportation Education Day
Thursday, May 15
10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Detroit Science Center, Detroit
MDOT and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) will promote careers at the Detroit Science Center. The exhibit area will feature interactive AASHTO TRAC displays, including magnetic levitation, bridge design and motion modules. The special activities are free with paid admission to the Science Center. For more information, call 313-577-8400.
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