Feb. 14, 2006

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) recently approved the use of RV Friendly signs.

Retailers can affix the RV Friendly logo — a bright yellow circle with the letters RV —  to their own logos on highway exit signs. The logo helps RVers to locate restaurants, fuel stations, tourist attractions and camping facilities that are capable of accommodating RVs.

Michigan is the seventh state to adopt the RV Friendly initiative, joining Oregon, Louisiana, Tennessee, Washington, Florida and Texas. RV Friendly legislation is pending in Alabama and Mississippi.

The Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (MARVAC) led the Michigan efforts.

"The RV Friendly initiative supports the industry by making the RV experience more convenient and enjoyable," said Bill Sheffer, MARVAC director. "And like in Texas, we were able to get it accomplished by working with MDOT rather than having to pursue legislation."

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), on Sept. 6, 2005, granted interim approval for states to display the RV Friendly logo. Participating businesses must meet minimum guidelines outlined by FHWA.