The purpose of the Transportation Summit was to identify key issues that need to be addressed in order to create a vision of Michigan's transportation system that will support Michigan as a magnet for jobs, growth, people and economic activity.

From June 2003 to November 2003, planning teams met to explore and consider each of nine key issues. Experts were invited to speak on these topics.

To prepare for the December 3rd and 4th, 2003 Summit, MDOT invited over 75 key partners (industry, local and federal government, not-for-profit organizations, local providers, and other state agencies) to help assist in planning.

The Summit Planning Team consists of over 40 individuals representing 35 organizations throughout Michigan. The Planning Team created an operating charter and then identified key issues to address to create a vision for the future of Michigan's transportation system. The following issues were identified: