5/23/2014
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
ITD launches mobile-friendly websites for I-84 construction projects
BOISE – The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) this week launched new mobile-friendly websites for three Interstate 84 construction projects in the Treasure Valley, as the department continues to expand public-outreach efforts beyond traditional venues.
The three new websites, for the Meridian, Broadway and Gowen interchange reconstruction projects on heavily travelled I-84, can be accessed at the addresses below:
• www.itd.idaho.gov/BroadwayInterchange
• www.itd.idaho.gov/GowenInterchange
• www.itd.idaho.gov/MeridianInterchange
The new websites include construction updates, project videos, schedule information and other details. Each site is designed to adapt to a tablet, mobile phone or desktop computer.
ITD southwest Idaho public information specialist, Reed Hollinshead, said the department began evaluating its approach to mobile technology several years ago.
“People are increasingly using cell phones to get news and stay connected,” said Hollinshead. “Our goal is to make it easy for travelers to find up-to-date information so they can plan a safe trip through the construction zone.”
A January 2014 update by the Pew Research Internet Project said nearly two-thirds (63 percent) of adult cell phone owners use their phones to go online, and 42 percent of Americans own a tablet computer.
The department added social-media platforms in 2009 and rolled out its first mobile-friendly website late last year for the Broadway Bridge replacement project. The Meridian, Broadway and Gowen websites are the first construction websites to go mobile.
The three I-84 interchange construction projects began in March and are expected to be completed in late 2015. The projects will increase safety and capacity on I-84 in the Treasure Valley.