From Deseret News archives:
UDOT working to inform drivers
Campaign highlights 21 construction projects
"Know Where, Know Why" is UDOT's game plan for making motorists aware of construction projects throughout the state that may slow down their daily commute or hinder their summer travel plans.
Of the 194 construction projects under way in Utah, UDOT is highlighting the 21 most likely to cause problems for motorists.
"What we're trying to get across (to the public) is that there is a reason behind all these projects," said John Njord, UDOT executive director: "If you know where they are and what we're trying to accomplish, hopefully it can minimize the impact on your daily commute or when you're traveling around the state."
As part of the "Know Where, Know Why" campaign, UDOT will sponsor radio ads throughout the construction season, providing up-to-date information on major projects, as well as travel tips for holiday and peak-travel weekends.
Fliers titled "UDOT's Guide to 2007 Road Construction," featuring a map of construction areas and expected duration of the projects, will be available at hotels and visitor-information centers throughout the state. The construction guides also will be available at all Subway restaurants in Utah.
To assist motorists visiting or traveling through the state, UDOT will be distributing weekly traffic information via e-mail and fax to front-desk personnel of Utah hotels and lodging properties.
"We want that person at the front desk to be the most knowledgable person about traffic in their part of the state," Njord said.
Finally, UDOT has revamped its Web site, www.udot.utah.gov, to include an interactive map of the 21 construction sites. When visitors scroll their mouse over each project area, the latest information on the project will appear, UDOT officials said.
Cost for the construction projects to mitigate congestion and preserve existing infrastructure statewide this year is estimated at $1.4 million.
"As long as our state keeps growing, we'll keep having more and more projects," said Nile Easton, UDOT spokesman. "This year is a big year, and next year looks even bigger."
E-mail: jpage@desnews.com
