ASCE 2006 Conference

General Information

ADA COMPLIANCE


The Westin Chicago River North is fully accessible to the physically challenged and includes volume control pay phones, TDD, assistive listening devices, and automatic doors. If you require special assistance at the conference, please submit a written description of your requirements with your registration form or email conferences@asce.org BEFORE October 7, 2006. While ASCE will make every effort to meet the needs of the
physically challenged, accommodations cannot be guaranteed without prior notification.


ASCE BOOKSTORE

ASCE will operate its popular bookstore at the Annual Conference in Chicago. ASCE offers more than 400 titles, many of which will be available only at Conference. This is a great opportunity to purchase books dealing with the latest hot topics in leadership, and other topics of interest to civil engineers.  Visit the ASCE Bookstore near registration.


ATTENDEE PACKETS

Early-bird and Advance registrants will receive their name badges and any tickets ordered at the ASCE Registration Desk located in the hotel on the River Level II during registration hours. Early-bird and Advance registrants should present the official ASCE registration receipt to on-site registrars
to obtain Conference materials.


ATTIRE

The dress code for the Conference is business casual (i.e., slacks, casual dresses) to business attire (i.e., neckties, business suits.) Meeting room temperatures will vary, so wear layered clothing to ensure your personal comfort. We also recommend attendees wear comfortable shoes.


BADGE POLICY AND RIBBONS

Your name badge is your admission to the educational sessions. Please wear your badge at all times while in the Hotel. ASCE recommends you remove your badge when leaving the Hotel. Tickets are required for the preand post-conference and special events. Where tickets are required, please be sure to bring your tickets with you to each event as you will not be admitted without a ticket. Ribbons will be available at the Registration
Desk.


BOOK SIGNINGS

Another great reason to visit the ASCE bookstore!  Keynotes, Speakers, and Authors may be available to sign copies of their books. Signed books are a great addition to your library, whether for the office or for your personal and professional collection. Visit the bookstore to get information on when your favorite author will be at the ASCE bookstore signing books.  Don’t miss this outstanding opportunity to meet the experts!


CITY INFORMATION

For more information on the city of Chicago or the surrounding area please contact the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau directly.

Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau
2301 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60616
Phone: 312-567-8500
Fax: 312-567-8472
www.choosechicago.com


MEETING ROOM OVERCROWDING


ASCE will make every effort to schedule popular topics in rooms large enough to accommodate anticipated attendance. Since many topics are extremely popular, it is wise to select alternative sessions as you plan your Conference schedule. ASCE and the Westin Chicago River North Hotel personnel are REQUIRED to follow local fire regulations and may ask participants in rooms filled to capacity to choose another session.


MEMBER SERVICES & ASCE BOOTH


Are you getting the most of your ASCE membership?  Keep your skills sharp with discounted rates on conferences, publications and continuing education courses.  If you know a colleague who is not a member of ASCE, pass along the professional benefits you enjoy by encouraging them to join.


NO SMOKING POLICY


ASCE supports a “No Smoking” policy. Smoking is prohibited in the Westin Chicago River North Hotel and all venues hosting ASCE events.


PARKING INFORMATION AT THE HOTEL


There are several garages close to the Westin Chicago River North Hotel.


• NO COMPLIMENTARY SHUTTLE
• Parking (secure)—$36-45 Per 24-Hours. (In and Out privileges)
• Parking (surcharge)—$36-45 Per 24-Hours (In and Out privileges)
• Parking (valet)—$36-45 Per 24-Hours
• Limo/Town Car Service Available

Other Parking Options


• Public Lot two minutes walking distance from Westin
• $20 per night (No In or Out privileges)
• No supervised attendant after 10:00 p.m.
*If you’re driving into Chicago, parking can be found in the many downtown garages and lots. Parking costs for 1-4 hours range from $7-17, 5-24 hour fees can range from $15-24. All garages are within six blocks of the Westin Hotel.


*APCOA Standard Parking
Michigan Avenue at Washington Street
(Grant Park North Garage), 312-742-7530


*Michigan Avenue at Van Buren Street
(Grant Park South Garage), 312-747-2519


*Columbus Drive at Monroe Street
(East Monroe Street Garage), 312-742-7644


PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT HOURS (PDHs)


You may earn PDHs, which are nationally recognized units of record, by attending conference technical sessions. Please note that there are differences from state to state in continuing education requirements for professional engineering licensure. Each state licensing board has the final authority to approve course, credits, PDHs, and other methods of earning credits in that state. ASCE strongly recommends that individuals regularly
check with their state licensing boards for specific continuing education requirements in their jurisdictions that affect professional engineering licensure and the ability to renew licensure.


SPOUSE TOUR PROGRAM


There are exciting things to see and do in Chicago!  ASCE is proud to offer a Spouse Tour Program starting on Thursday, October 19 through Saturday, October 21.  Offerings* will include tours of the Chicago Neighborhoods, Chocolate Shops, shopping, King Tut’s exhibit and an architectural boat tour. Visit ASCE’s web site in August for more detailed information.
* Subject to change without notice.


WEATHER


Chicago is one of the greatest cities in the world. With its beautiful lakefront, incredible architecture and cosmopolitan culture, Chicago attracts millions from around the globe every year.


Chicago’s a great walking city, so be sure to pack comfortable shoes and clothes. Layering clothes is recommended, especially during the spring and autumn months which can be very unpredictable.


The temperature in October can range in the mid 50’s to low 60’s, with a wind speed and gusts approximately 17 miles per hour. Not exactly winter coat weather however, it is recommended to bring a jacket just in case.