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Nov. 11, 2024

Powering Michigan’s Economy and Future

For Peter Savolainen, Michigan’s roadways demand earnest, ongoing attention.

The chair of Michigan State University’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and an MSU Research Foundation Professor, Savolainen has been a prominent figure in the state’s efforts to reduce traffic-related crashes, injuries and fatalities.

Professional Headshot of Pete Savolainen
Pete Savolainen

His research into rumble strips, high-tension cable barriers and roundabouts helps agencies like the Michigan Department of Transportation take thoughtful action to improve roadway safety and lower the nearly 300,000 traffic crashes that occur on Michigan roadways each year.

“Ultimately, this research is about creating a better, safer Michigan,” says Savolainen, a native of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Improving Michigan’s roads is just one way MSU research benefits its home state.

See the entire research impact story by Daniel P. Smith and Deon Foster on MSUToday.

MSU College of Engineering Media and Public Relations page

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