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| Introduction |
 Program Background
The Michigan Carpool Parking Lot Program was initiated during the energy crisis of the early 70s. At that time, the scarcity of fuel accompanied by rising transportation costs encouraged many motorists to begin carpooling on a wide-scale basis. Lacking adequate and convenient parking facilities, carpoolers parked alongside roads, on private property or in commercial parking lots. Potential safety problems associated with roadside parking prompted the development of the Michigan Carpool Parking Lot Program, an effort to provide safe and convenient parking facilities for Michigan's carpoolers. With the establishment of this program the Department made a commitment to the conservation of limited energy resources while responding to the needs of the state's travelers. Subsequent concern with air quality and congestion has led to continued program expansion and the systematic improvement of existing facilities.
The Michigan Carpool Parking Lot Program began as a pilot program in 1974 with 11 carpool parking lots. Today there are 231 carpool parking lots located across the state providing nearly 8,000 parking spaces. Approximately 2,800 vehicles park in these facilities on an average weekday. The program is continuing to grow and expand as new lots are constructed and existing lots are improved.
Using Carpool Lots
Please park at your own risk. MDOT cannot assure the security of you, your vehicle, or the contents of your vehicle. If you are concerned for your safety or your vehicle's safety we encourage you to use facilities that are lighted and in higher traffic areas. There are no restrictions on how long you may leave a vehicle at a carpool parking facility. If a vehicle appears abandoned, however, it may be tagged and towed by the local or state police. Under the Michigan Vehicle Code, a vehicle may be considered abandoned 48 hours after being tagged by a law enforcement officer. You may wish to contact the police agency where the carpool lot is located for local enforcement practices. Questions or Comments: Contact: Melinda Ball, Carpool Parking Lot Customer Service Representative, Michigan Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 30050 Lansing, MI 48909 (517) 241-0006. E-mail: ballm@michigan.gov
Local Rideshare Offices (LROs)
LROs provide matching services for those interested in carpooling or vanpooling for the work commute. The 12 LROs in Michigan are identified separately. If you are interested in finding others to carpool or vanpool with, please contact the agency closest to your work destination. Find a Local Rideshare Office near you. Questions or Comments: Contact: Jean Ruestman, Statewide Rideshare Coordinator, Michigan Department of Transportation Transportation Planning Services Division P.O. Box 30050 Lansing, MI 48909 (517) 373-6625; E-mail: ruestmanj@michigan.gov
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