Guiding Racing Fans at Michigan International Speedway

A Michigan summer wouldn't be complete without "race weekend" at Michigan International Speedway (MIS) in Brooklyn, Mich.

There are typically two NASCAR races per year at MIS, one in June and August, in the heart of Southern Michigan's Irish Hills. Racing fans from all over the country and Canada fill up hotels, motels and campgrounds in the communities surrounding the area.

A feature that makes MIS special scenically and logistically is its location -- there are no interstate highways adjacent to the raceway.

Because the roads around MIS are rural in nature, there are several challenges moving traffic to and from the speedway. To assist with this obstacle, fans will encounter the Michigan State Police (MSP) as they drive into MIS.

The troopers are often the first representatives that the public observes, directing traffic and guiding pedestrians to the day's fun.

Since 1969, the MSP has had a presence at the speedway. When a race takes place, there are more than 200 troopers present throughout the weekend guiding patrons. The MSP works closely with other law enforcement agencies and transportation officials to develop a traffic pattern of one-way roadways, enabling large volumes of traffic to go inbound and outbound from the speedway.

And the response from racing fans about the ease of movement has been overwhelming.

Every year, MIS conducts an exit survey with race fans who attended an event. For the last few years, MIS has been rated at the top for fan accessibility. Fans have also given feedback on the professionalism of law enforcement officers -- and those ratings have also been extremely high.

The MSP enters into a contractual agreement with MIS to provide these traffic control services, with the costs fully reimbursed.

Any trooper working this detail must be on pass (day off), and leave time cannot be taken to work the detail. This ensures regular patrol shifts at the posts are not impacted.

The troopers are always ready to ensure that patrons have a safe and fun time at an event.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Michigan State Police
• MIS
• troopers
• NASCAR
• Racing

[scottbeard]

We here in Monroe MI LOVE our Trooper Herman Brown!