Great Lakes Wire

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will hold a virtual public hearing to discuss new administrative rules for state-maintained roadside facilities. The proposed regulations would cover all MDOT right of way properties, which include 61 highway rest areas, 82 roadside parks, 267 carpool lots, 23 scenic turnouts, and 14 Welcome Centers.

The hearing is open to interested residents, commuters, and local businesses. Two identical sessions are scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025: one from noon to 1:30 p.m., and another from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Both sessions will feature a live webcast presentation followed by an opportunity for attendees to provide comments.

Those who need mobility, visual, hearing, written or other assistance are encouraged to contact Orlando Curry at least five business days before the meeting. Requests made after that period will be considered as possible.

In addition to speaking at the hearing, the public can submit feedback online through an online comment form or by emailing MDOT-PublicComments@Michigan.gov. Written comments can also be left at any MDOT-owned rest area or mailed to Monica Monsma at Michigan Department of Transportation B245, P.O. Box 30050, Lansing, MI 48909. The deadline for submitting comments is Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025.

The proposed rules aim to clarify how MDOT roadside facilities may be used. They address issues such as long-term parking limits, camping bans and sanitation standards. Other topics include service animal policies, group permits and restrictions on commercial activities. A maximum stay of 48 hours would be imposed; camping and alcohol would be prohibited; and violations could result in misdemeanor penalties. More information about the proposed rules is available at Michigan.gov/ROWRules.