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DENVER -- The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) officially launched a new communications tool that will allow users to receive e-mail and text message updates on specific transportation topics and travel conditions. 

Currently, CDOT is offering updates on road condition information, news releases and construction information across the state, broken down by specific corridors and regions of the state.

“With the technology available today, we wanted to expand our communication methods and provide more real-time information to the traveling public,” said CDOT executive director Russell George. “This new tool will allow users to directly receive the information they are interested in and hopefully help them prepare for travel delays and construction.”

Signing up to receive updates is easy and free (standard text messaging rates apply) and can be completed in three simple steps.

1. Visit the CDOT Web site at www.coloradodot.info and click on the icon in upper right corner entitled "Sign up for Email and Wireless Alerts."

2. Enter an e-mail address and decide if you want your account password protected and if you want to receive e-mail, text alerts or both (not all items are available as a text alert).

3. First-time subscribers are then presented with a list of all subscription items available. Select the updates to receive and hit "Submit."

Once an account is created and the subscription lists are selected, users will receive e-mail or text message alerts for the topics selected. Those who opt to receive text message alerts are reminded that it’s not only unsafe, but illegal to text while driving in Colorado. You can also use a similar process to unsubscribe to any list.  Users are encouraged to check the subscriptions lists occasionally as additional lists will be added in the future.

“This is a great way for motorists to stay informed about road conditions and delays on Colorado highways,” added George. “While it is impossible for us to know everything taking place on all of our highways, we do have a great deal of resources and will use them to provide the traveling public with the most accurate information as possible.”

For additional information about CDOT, visit www.coloradodot.info or follow CDOT on Twitter at @coloradodot.