ABQjournal: Web Site Lets Drivers Check Road Conditions The Associated Press

SANTA FE— Drivers on New Mexico’s highways now can check the Internet before they get behind the wheel to find out road conditions, construction projects and weather forecasts.

“New Mexico motorists need accurate, real-time information on road and weather conditions before they begin their daily commute,” said state Transportation Secretary Rhonda Faught.

The information is generated by a traffic-management program called Condition Acquisition and Reporting System, or CARS.

The department’s six transportation districts enter and update such things as road conditions, construction, closures or maintenance work. The program sends the information to the travel information Web site at www.nmshtd.state.nm.us or www.nmroads.com 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Web site displays a map that shows warnings, alerts or closures— and even where there are good driving conditions. It also has a text section that explains what’s going on in various locations in terms of maintenance, construction or other conditions. Tuesday’s messages, for example, alert travelers to road closures due to forest fires and grass fires.

The department also provides road information through a toll-free hotline, (800) 432-4269.