On Thursday, August 13, 2009, concrete pavers, drivers, bikers, runners and auto manufacturers around the world will take a moment to say thanks to Wayne County, Michigan.
In 1909, Wayne County completed the first mile of concrete highway in the world, and 2009 marks the 100th anniversary of the “First Mile of Concrete Highway”. Without this important innovation and the cooperation between planning & design and transportation experts, the modern day highway system would be just a imagination.
Please make plans to join the Woodward Avenue Action Association (WA3) as they present:
A Celebration of Innovation: the 100th Anniversary of the First Mile of Concrete Highway
When: Thursday, August 13
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Palmer Park, Southwest field along Woodward Avenue, near 6 Mile. This field is just south of the tennis courts by the Bathhouse
Cost: Free
This event will mark the historic actions and innovations of Wayne County and the City of Detroit. On hand to unveil the M-1 markers signifying this area of Woodward’s importance will be Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano, Preservation Wayne’s Karen Nagher and representatives from the Michigan Department of Transportation.
Quick Facts the World’s First Mile of Concrete Highway
Location: Greenfield Township [now NW Detroit)
Length: 1.2 miles
Width: 24 feet
Thickness: 6 1/2 Inches
Agency: Wayne County Road Commission
Commissioners: Edward Hines, John Haggerty, William Murdoch
Engineer: George Dingman
Cost: $13,492.83
Contractor: Baker & Clancy
To RSVP or for more information please contact Outreach & Promotions Coordinator, Nicole Brown at nicole@woodwardavenue.org or call 248-288-2004
HOMETOWN HISTORY TOURS 
Hello from Muskegon, Michigan, and thanks for the concrete highway, Wayne County!