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ITD begins limited use of Twitter – check out the 'tweets'

The emerging world of social media is opening new opportunities for government agencies to send important information directly and efficiently to the public.

For ITD, notices of road closures, lane restrictions and construction zones are at the forefront of its decision to launch a pilot program using Twitter, the social networking and messaging medium that sends and receives instant 140-character messages via the Twitter Web site or by way of web-capable cellular phones.

Initially, ITD will test the advantages of Twitter by notifying users of construction information on I-84 in the Treasure Valley. If the pilot program proves successful, ITD will consider posting "tweets" about additional construction projects in the state.

A Twitter icon is posted on ITD's home page at itd.idaho.gov, or you can begin following ITD on Twitter by going to https://twitter.com/IdahoITD. The service is free over the Internet.

"Social media is becoming a great way to connect with Idahoans," said ITD Public Information Officer Jeff Stratten. "Tools such as Twitter allow us alert drivers to important information and hear back on what they have to say."

Also on ITD's home page is a new feature called In Motion hosted by public information specialist, June Sparks. The minute episodes involve topics such as how to find your way around the ITD Web site, a scenic look at Idaho's backcountry airstrips, and important safety messages such as driving through work zones.

Access the video by clicking on the In Motion icon on the ITD home page. You can also watch these and many other transportation videos on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/user/ITDoIDAHOoGOV.