The Iowa Department of Transportation introduced a new state map today. Iowa’s population may’ve declined in recent years, but the D-O-T has developed 2002 map that’s increased the printed size of the state by 25 percent. The map was introduced at a Des Moines senior center and it’s larger symbols and lettering drew approval from Beverly Lancial, who describes herself as a senior citizen. She says anything that can help senior citizens or others is worthwhile.D-O-T Director Mark Wandro says Iowa’s aging population was just one of the reasons for making the cities and towns on the map bigger.He says everyone benefits from a map that’s easier to read. The D-O-T’s ordered half of the two-point-three-million new 2002 maps in the larger size and Wandro says if they’re well received, they’ll print more in 2003. He believes Iowans will like the bigger print maps. The free maps will soon be available at Iowa rest stops and visitor centers. While the printing on some of the maps is bigger, the size of the paper they’re printed on is the same.
