News

Internet kiosks to be installed at Texas rest areas

June 8, 2004

AUSTIN,Texas - Travelers may soon be able to surf the Internet while they stretch their legs or grab a soda at Texas rest areas, according to a story in the Star-Telegram.

The Texas Department of Transportation plans to install kiosks where motorists can swipe a credit card and use Internet-enabled computers in 15-minute increments.

The Texas Department of Transportation is taking offers from companies willing to provide free wireless Internet access at the state's 84 rest areas and 12 travel information centers.

The department began experimenting with Wi-Fi hot spots in the Panhandle last fall, installing them at a rest area along U.S. 287 in Donley County and two rest stops on U.S. 287 in Hardeman County.

Texas is the first state to provide free access at rest areas, an official said.

"The feedback we've received so far has been very positive," said Andy Keith, manager of the Transportation Department's maintenance division.