National Press Release

DETROIT, Jan. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Riding the People Mover is the fastest way from most downtown destinations to gain access to -- and exit from -- the North American International Auto Show.

For 22 of 44 years that the Auto Show has been presented at Cobo Center, the Detroit People Mover (DPM) has traveled its 2.9 mile route going one way: counter-clockwise. Annual visitors returning this year, however, may need to take note of one significant change: the trains now move in a clockwise direction. The new routing went into effect last summer.

On average, the People Mover transports over 200,000 patrons during the public days*. The service begins earlier on the weekends during the Auto Show, and it will operate on its normal schedule all other days during the show period.

    Detroit People Mover Auto Show Hours:

            Saturday, Jan. 17 & 24                      7:30 AM - 2:00 AM
            Sunday, Jan. 18 & 25                        8:00 AM - Midnight
            Monday, Jan. 19 - Thursday, Jan. 22         6:30 AM - Midnight
            Friday, Jan. 23                             6:30 AM - 2:00 AM

The new direction began last August following the successful completion of the People Mover's Rail Replacement Project. Eighteen hundred feet of new rail replaced worn areas of track within the system's six tightest guideway curves. The clockwise route takes less time round trip and will offer quicker connections between some of Downtown Detroit's most popular destinations.

*The Detroit People Mover carried 211,934 passengers during the Public Days of the 2008 NAIAS.

The Detroit People Mover is a fully automated light rail system that operates on an elevated, single-track loop in Detroit's central business district. Launched in 1987, the system's 13 stations place patrons close to the courts and administrative offices of several levels of government, sports arenas, exhibition centers, major hotels, and commercial, banking and retail districts. Service is frequent, unencumbered by vehicle or pedestrian traffic, and fare is just 50 cents per ride. Children, age five and under ride free. Handicapped patrons can board at all stations, with the exception of Grand Circus Park, which is accessible by stairways only.

For more information, a detailed system map or an online station guide, please visit www.thepeoplemover.com or call the Detroit Transportation Corporation during regular business hours at 313-224-2160.

SOURCE Detroit People Mover