Motorists Tune In For Road Reports

TRANSPORTATION/PUBLIC WORKS--Motorists Tune In For Road Reports

Motorists driving in Halifax and Dartmouth can now tune in to 97.9 FM for up-to-date road and travel information.

The Department of Transportation and Public Works is broadcasting messages on the station about road construction, maintenance and safety. The broadcasts are at no cost to taxpayers.

"Summer is our busiest time of the year with paving and repaving jobs," said Ron Russell, Minister of Transportation and Public Works. "The department is providing drivers with the information they need to make their travel plans."

The station is privately owned by former CTV W-5 host Jack McGaw and his associate James MacLeod.

"We've received outstanding support and co-operation from the Department of Transportation and Public Works in providing both road-side signage and important information on provincial highways," said Mr. McGaw.

Information signs for 97.9 FM are located about 10 kilometres inbound on Highway 102 and at other key locations within a 10 kilometre radius of Halifax Regional Municipality. Signs are also posted on provincial 100-series highways as drivers exit Halifax and Dartmouth. The signs were designed and installed by the Department of Transportation and Public Works and all associated costs were paid for by the radio station.

Broadcasting began on June 29 and is available only in Halifax and Dartmouth. Plans are in the works to create similar services in other parts of the province.

Other departments that provide content for the radio station include the Department of Natural Resources and Department of Tourism and Culture.