Travel tweets

Did you know that you can sign up on Twitter to receive updates regarding travel conditions in NC? I didn't either, until I read the press release below regarding NCDOT preparations for Tropical Storm Danny. I haven't signed up for Twitter yet, but I just might do so now. (Been meaning to for a while, anyway...just too busy to keep up with the times!)

NCDOT PREPARED FOR TROPICAL STORM DANNY
Coastal crews on standby along the Outer Banks; travel information available on Twitter

RALEIGH — Although Tropical Storm Danny is not expected to reach North Carolina’s coast, the N.C. Department of Transportation is prepared for high tides and potential road flooding along the Outer Banks.

NCDOT has put coastal crews on standby, moved heavy equipment to flood-prone areas in Dare County, as well as Ocracoke Island, and will monitor flooding along N.C. 12 on the Outer Banks. Crews can use the front-end loaders, motor graders and bulldozers to push sand off the road and help drain any standing water once the tide passes.

There are several ways for citizens to find out about road conditions. Travelers can call 511, the state’s toll-free travel information line, or visit the NCDOT Traveler Information Web site at www.ncdot.gov/traffictravel. Ferry operations are not expected to be affected; however, motorists are encouraged to call 1-800-BY-FERRY (293-3779) for schedule updates.

NCDOT also offers travel information on Twitter, a free social-networking Web site. Citizens can get brief updates, or “tweets,” for 16 different routes or regions of the state, including the coast. The department’s Twitter alerts about the state’s ferry system include details on schedule changes, weather-related delays and ticket sales.

To see all the Twitter options NCDOT offers and information on how to sign up for a Twitter account, go to www.ncdot.gov/travel/twitter. Signing up allows users to receive tweets on mobile devices such as cell phones and PDAs.

The department reminds motorists not to use mobile devices while driving. Instead, NCDOT encourages them to check the alerts before they leave home, work or school. This will not only enhance safety but also help motorists determine the best route to take.


***NCDOT***