Website shows what’s coming down the road

In an effort to become more transparent, the Nevada Department of Transportation is allowing public access to future state transportation projects.

"We want to allow people to see what's coming up down the road," said Tony Illia, public information officer for NDOT.

The Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, or STIP, will allow Nevadans to look for information on road construction, improvements and current or future projects. Detailed maps pertaining to major near-term or future transportation projects will be available on the site.

The site provides funding information about NDOT and regional transportation projects as well.

Aside from showing improvements being made across the state, the site allows users to search for projects according to categories such as location, agency and project type. County-by-county maps provide geographic looks at projects as well.

Illia said the website will give citizens an idea of projected cost, where and when the project will take place and what it is. If a resident has any concerns, he or she can call NDOT, use the reference number provided for that project, and discuss it.

"We've had this website in the works for four or five years now," Illia said. "The idea was generated because the company wanted to go electronic and give a more effective, free way to access information."

All projects are included in STIP, which is a four-year planning document containing all the transportation projects that are federally funded, state funded or regionally significant, according to a press release.

"The projects listed in this website not only keep Nevadans safe and connected, but they are an investment in our state's workforce, economy and future," NDOT Director Rudy Malfabon said. "We want to continually keep Nevadans involved and updated on the transportation improvements that will benefit them for decades to come."

These projects will improve Nevada's transportation system, according to the release, including increasing the number of lanes, constructing new roads, road extensions and intersection improvements.

The website also will include transit, rail, pedestrian walkways and bicycle facility projects.

Illia said the website allows the public to show up to upcoming project meetings that NDOT has, and gives them an idea of when it's going to happen.

"We want to hear feedback," Illia said. "Do you like it? Does it work? If not, why? The feedback has been great so far. We just really wanted to be more accessible and transparent for the community."

Contact reporter Randy Faehnirch at rfaehnrich@bouldercityreview.com or at 702-586-9401. Follow him on Twitter @RandyFaehnrich