Michigan reopens traveler Welcome Facilities in time for summer time tourism

LANSING, Michigan (WYRT) – Travelers re-entering Michigan have stops this summer for information.

The Michigan Department of Transportation is opening 14 tourist information centers along major highways and roads near the state line in time for Memorial Day weekend Friday. The Michigan Welcome Centers have been closed for about 14 months during the coronavirus pandemic.

MDOT expects high demand for travel and tourism information over Memorial Day weekend when more than 1 million Michigan residents will travel. This corresponds to a 57% increase over the limited travel last year due to the pandemic.

“MDOT Welcome Centers play a key role in highlighting all that Michigan has to offer for both in-state and out-of-state travelers,” said Paul Ajegba, State Transportation Director. “Our knowledgeable Welcome Center staff has a wealth of information from Pure Michigan to help travelers find the destinations, events and activities they’re looking for.”

MDOT and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services continue to work together to provide free COVID-19 testing at U.S. Welcome Centers 23 in Dundee, I-69 in Coldwater, I-94 in New Buffalo, and I- 75 in Monroe.

“Pure Michigan stands ready and eager to welcome visitors again and advance Michigan’s recovery by promoting safe travel across the state,” said Dave Lorenz, vice president of Travel Michigan, part of Michigan Economic Development Corp. “Our welcome centers play a crucial role.” The role in ensuring a positive visitor experience on first impression and the safe reopening of the Welcome Center are good news for the industry. “

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